Feb 20
Cutting Down on the Zombie Requests
Reading the headline, most of you probably already know what I’m talking about.
Earlier today, Facebook posted on their blog about measures that it’s taking to cut out the application spam. This refers to the dozens of “Zombie” and “Top Friends” notifications you get every day, that make Facebook unpleasant to use. Now, Facebook will be making it easier for users to block these notifications, and penalizing applications that encourage users to send out “spammy” requests.
Last year, Facebook opened up its API further than it already was, to enable 3rd-party applications to integrate directly inside of the Facebook webpage. This was great news for developers– it meant easier access to Facebook’s large user base, better interoperability with profile pages, and a very easy-to-use interface for developing their applications. Many large companies have taken advantage of this, and started developing useful applications for Facebook, and also promote their products. For the most part, though, it’s been bad news for users.
Because Facebook made it so easy to use their API, just about anyone can make a Facebook application now. And, just about everyone has made a Facebook application now, with over 16,000 profile applications developed since the launch last year. Most of the applications are entirely useless, and have become a nuissance for anyone using Facebook simply to keep in touch with their friends. Many have critisized Facebook lately as becoming the next Myspace. So, this announcement comes at a good time.
I used to work on a Facebook application, Mitra, which is partially why I’ve been following the Facebook blog. Although nearly all of the newer profile applications are useless, there are still a few worth checking out. For example, I like the “Where I’ve Been” app. But, to cut out the cruft, I find the best way to stop the annoying notifications is to completely block them. This was previously done by going to the application’s homepage, and pressing the “Block” button there. However, this is one of the specific features that Facebook is said to be improving. Thanks goodness.
If you're new here, you can subscribe to automaticable's RSS feed by clicking here. Or, you can get post updates through your email. Thanks for visiting!
February 20th, 2008 at 4:19 pm
I second that…THANK GOODNESS! I do not look forward to having “notifications” like I did back in the good ol’ days when Facebook was pure. It used to be you would only be contacted when something worth paying attention to happened, which is not the case right now. I am SO glad Facebook is actually listening to their user base, which in the end is obviously a smart decision since their bills are paid by the users.
February 20th, 2008 at 4:21 pm
As a side note, who would have thought that an app that was based around the taglines “Infect your friends” and “Brains. Yummy.” would actually catch on like a wildfire. That is such nonsense.