Avid users of Facebook Messenger on their Android device would be happy to know that the app has just received some significant changes. The timing of release is interesting because Apple also just launched the new iMessage. For Android users, the FB Messenger can now receive SMS messages. This means you can text a family member or friend right on the app without having to go out and switch to your phone’s default message function. This change makes it easier for everyone to communicate with more people as they don’t have to leave Messenger.
Being able to text from the FB Messenger app is much more convenient. It can be confusing to keep track of two separate apps so seeing some of your messages on the app lets you remember where you’ve left off in the conversation. Access most of you messages in one place so everything is simpler, easier, and your life is more organized.
Some Android Facebook Messenger users were able to test the update. You can check yourself if your version is ready by opening the Messenger app, choose Settings, click ‘SMS’ if you see it on the list, and then turn on ‘Default SMS app’. Note that this change is only for the Android version. You won’t be confused because blue conversations are for the FB Messenger and purple messages are SMS. Most standard message formats are supported from text to audio to videos, emojis, stickers, and location sharing.
Recipient of messages sent from the Facebook Messenger app will receive them on their FB app. When you send a text, the other person will receive it as a plain, regular text unless he also uses the FB Messenger with the SMS feature activated.
SOURCE: Facebook