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"Facebook has today announced its first ever product that is open to people without an account on the social network.  An update to the Messenger for Android app allows users of the smartphone platform to create a Messenger account with just their name and phone number, and then start messaging their contacts.  Users just need to download and install the Messenger app, meaning those who have shunned Facebook can still access it. When they sign up, the app will automatically integrate all their contacts.  The rollout starts today on Android in India, Australia, Indonesia, Venezuela and South Africa, but will expand to the rest of the world in due course. The change to Messenger will also hit Apple iOS devices later.  The social network has clearly realised that its Messenger service does not currently have the reach of rival services, such as Pinger, WhatsApp and Microsoft&amp;#039;s Skype.  People use instant messaging services as a free way to communicate with their friends, family and contacts, as well as send photos and videos.  Interestingly, Facebook&amp;#039;s announcement comes after the company was linked with a major acquisition of WhatsApp, the extremely popular messaging service on Android, iOS and other mobile platforms.  Should Facebook fail in the rumoured bid for WhatsApp, then the listed firm could instead look to boost its own Messenger app as a backup plan. This could tempt Facebook abstainers to consider the social network, as well as drive up any advertising revenues due to the increased user base.  "^^<http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema#string>
<http://www.digitalspy.com/tech/news/a442866/facebook-launches-first-product-that-doesnt-require-facebook-account/>