Meta has released a new app called Forum, designed for Facebook Groups, which was discovered in the App Store by Matt Navarra of Geekout Newsletter. The app aims to create a dedicated space for user conversations and presents itself as an alternative for obtaining “real answers” from “real people,” akin to Reddit’s format.
Users must have a Facebook account to access Forum, with their profile and activity transferring upon login. Unlike Reddit, Forum does not offer anonymous conversations. However, users can use anonymized usernames, while administrators will have access to their real identities.
Forum’s feed will primarily feature discussions from users’ Groups, rather than the mixed content typical of Facebook feeds, which includes posts from friends, group memberships, and algorithmically suggested content. Upon initial login, users will select the types of content they wish to see more of, potentially including posts from other Groups related to their interests.
Posts made in Forum will also appear on the main Facebook app, facilitating continuity in conversations across both platforms. This is not Meta’s first attempt at a Group-centric app, as it launched a standalone Groups app that was discontinued in 2017.
The app includes AI features such as “Ask,” which aggregates responses from various Groups to help users find information more efficiently. Another feature is an admin assistant aimed at aiding moderators in managing their Groups. A spokesperson for Meta stated that Forum is still undergoing testing and that the company is evaluating user interest and utility through public trials.
