Facebook Tests WorkPlace Chat App For Mac and PC

Facebook, the social networking giant, has quietly launched the beta version of Workplace, its dedicated chat application, for Mac’s and PCs. 

The beta app, called Workplace Chat, makes it easy for employees to message coworkers throughout the day without relying on a browser tab. Facebook will also be rolling out support for screen sharing in the app as well on the website. The desktop app, similar to the dedicated Workplace Chat website, was modeled after Messenger.com. The app will also consist of a dashboard with the same text chat and media sharing capabilities as the website with support for voice and video calling, screen sharing and customized push notifications along with one to one and group chats. The new screen sharing feature will allow users to select and share a specific desktop app or share their entire screen, as a key consideration that benefits user privacy.

Workplace is Facebook’s enterprise focused messaging and social networking service which was launched last year. Presently, the enterprise collaboration tool has over 14,000 businesses on board who pay $ 1 to $ 3 per user. In September this year, the company signed on the retailing giant Walmart who is considered to be the world’s biggest employer with over 2.2 million employees on its books. Workplace was predominantly designed to rival other collaborative services like Slack. This service also allows users to build custom profiles, view advertisement free news feeds, create multi organization groups and host live video broadcasts.

Facebook spokesperson Vanessa Chan confirmed the launch of the Workplace desktop app saying it was one of the most widely requested features by the customers. “The desktop app is still in beta and (is) being tested by Workplace customers who are providing feedback that we’ll use to improve the product before a wider rollout,” she added.

The new app can be downloaded on Macs and PCs here – Facebook Workplace App.