Users not pleased with Facebook Messenger split

Facebook has begun forcing users to download its Facebook Messenger app, in order to use its messenger service, and users aren’t happy.

Previously users were able to use its message service through the Facebook app.

While Facebook Messenger is number one on the free app charts on the iTunes Australia store, it has an average rating of one star, from almost 1800 reviews.

American users have given the app a similar verdict.

As Mashable points out, the poor rating of the app can likely be attributed to the forced nature of the switch, as previous versions of the app were generally well received.

Xiaomi makes its cloud messaging service optional after security concerns

Fast-growing Chinese smartphone company Xiamoi is making the cloud messaging service on its devices optional, following security concerns that were raised last week.

A recent report highlighted that the service appears to share a range of information with a server in China – including the device’s IMEI number, customer’s phone number, contacts and text messages received.

Xiaomi’s Global VP Hugo Barra says the decision was made because the company’s top priority is to protect user data and privacy.

YouTube stars more popular than mainstream celebs

According to the results of a survey commissioned by Variety the five most influential figures among Americans aged between 13 and 18 are all YouTube stars.

Comedy teams Smosh, and the Fine Bros, finished atop the list, followed by Swedish gamer Felix Arvid Ulf Kjellberg, otherwise known as PewDiePie.

Overnight

The Dow Jones Industrial Average is up 185.66 to 16,553.93. The Australian dollar is currently trading at US93 cents.