There's now yet another way to chat with friends online.
In the latest of a series of updates, the online social-networking site Facebook released a new chat application last week.
Users can now see when their friends are online and chat with them in real-time, eliminating the need for a separate buddy list.
The tool takes the form of a collapsible bar at the bottom of the browser, from which users can view and then chat with any online friends.
Penn students have expressed mixed reactions to the new application.
According to College freshman Jessica Ireland, the new application is easier to use and more efficient than AOL Instant Messenger.
"Even if you don't have all your friends' screen names you can just talk to them on Facebook," she said.
College freshman Jon Rodriguez said Facebook is even better than AIM because he does not "feel really obligated to stay in a conversation with someone when on Facebook, as opposed to on AIM."
Facebook chat has several settings. For example, users can choose to display mini-feed stories in their online conversations.
They can also sign-off Facebook chat entirely, while still remaining on the site itself.
Those who criticized the new application called it unnecessary, distracting and annoying.
"I find the mini-feed aspect weird," College sophomore Rachel Darivoff said, adding that she often receives notifications even if she doesn't want them.
"I don't dislike it, but I'm not sure it's really necessary," College freshman Ellen Williams said. "We already have AIM and Facebook messages and e-mail and cell phones."
Wharton doctoral student Shimul Melwani mentioned that Facebook chat makes it obvious who spends a lot of time online, which could be an invasion of privacy.
Currently, Facebook chat is not available on all college networks.
Many students said Facebook should try to expand the application.
"Once it gets to different schools it will be huge," College freshman Josie Minton said.
Facebook spokespeople were unavailable for comment for this article.
According to a Facebook press release, the company hopes the chat tool will "make it easier to connect instantly" with friends.
Facebook also recently announced plans to redesign the layout of profile pages, as well as making it easier for users to completely delete profiles.
The Daily Pennsylvanian is an independent, student-run newspaper. Please consider making a donation to support the coverage that shapes the University. Your generosity ensures a future of strong journalism at Penn.
DonatePlease note All comments are eligible for publication in The Daily Pennsylvanian.
