Facebook Lite is a lightweight version of the Facebook app that uses less data and works well on slower networks. It has all the core Facebook features like messaging, posting, photos and videos, but in a smaller app size. Facebook Lite is ideal for people who have limited internet access or use low-end devices. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to download the latest version of Facebook Lite for Android and iOS devices.
Prerequisites
Before downloading Facebook Lite, ensure your device meets the minimum requirements:
- For Android
- Android 4.0.3 or higher
- ARMv7 processor or higher
- Open GL ES 2.0 or higher
- 420MB free space
- For iOS
- iOS 9.0 or higher
- iPhone 4S or higher
- iPad 2 or higher
- iPod Touch 5th gen or higher
- 200MB free space
Also make sure your device is connected to a stable internet connection to download and install the app.
Downloading Facebook Lite for Android
Here are the steps to download Facebook Lite on Android devices:
- Open the Google Play Store app on your Android device.
- At the top, tap the search bar and type in “Facebook Lite”. This will display search results for the app.
- Tap on the “Facebook Lite” app by Facebook.
- On the app page, tap “Install” to download and install the app.
- Once installed, tap “Open” to launch Facebook Lite.
Alternatively, you can download the APK file directly from APKMirror:
- Go to APKMirror.com on your Android device’s web browser.
- Search for “Facebook Lite” using the search bar.
- Select the latest version of the app and tap “Download APK”.
- Once downloaded, open your device’s File Manager app and find the APK file.
- Tap the APK file to begin the installation process.
- Accept any permissions or allow installation from Unknown Sources if prompted.
- After installation is complete, you can open Facebook Lite.
Downloading Facebook Lite for iOS
Follow these steps to get Facebook Lite on your iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch:
- Open the App Store app on your iOS device.
- At the bottom, tap “Search” and search for “Facebook Lite”.
- Tap “Get” next to the Facebook Lite app result.
- On the next screen, tap “Install”.
- Enter your Apple ID password if prompted.
- Wait for Facebook Lite to finish downloading and installing.
- You’ll find the Facebook Lite app on your home screen – tap to open it.
Updating to the Latest Facebook Lite Version
It’s recommended to keep Facebook Lite updated to the latest version for new features, security fixes and better performance. Here’s how to update Facebook Lite:
On Android
- Open the Google Play Store app.
- Tap the hamburger menu icon on the top left.
- Go to “My Apps & Games”.
- Under “Updates”, check if Facebook Lite is listed.
- If there is an Update button next to it, tap “Update” to get the latest version.
Alternatively, Facebook Lite will automatically update itself to the latest version within a few days.
On iOS
- Open the App Store app.
- Tap your profile icon on the top right.
- Scroll down to “Available Updates” section.
- If Facebook Lite is listed there, tap “Update” next to it.
You can also enable automatic updates for all apps in your iOS device settings. This will automatically update Facebook Lite in the background when new versions are released.
How Facebook Lite is Different from the Regular Facebook App
Although Facebook Lite contains the main Facebook features, there are some differences compared to the full-fledged Facebook app:
| Facebook Lite | Regular Facebook App |
|---|---|
| – Under 1MB app size | – Around 100MB app size |
| – Data saver option to reduce data usage | – No data saver |
| – Works on 2G networks | – Requires 3G network or higher |
| – Leaner News Feed | – Richer News Feed content |
| – Fewer animations and graphics | – More visually rich animations |
Some notable differences and missing features in Facebook Lite:
- No Facebook Gaming tab
- No option to upload HD photos and videos
- Simpler Messenger with no chat bots or business features
- No Facebook Dating
- Cannot create page or group events
Tips for Using Facebook Lite
Here are some tips to get the best experience when using Facebook Lite:
Use Data Saver
Turn on Data Saver in the app settings to reduce data usage by not loading high-quality images, videos and ads. This can lower data consumption by up to 70%.
Update Over Wi-Fi
Schedule app updates to run only when connected to Wi-Fi. This will prevent large downloads using your mobile data.
Enable Photo Compression
Compress photos before uploading them to save data. In Facebook Lite settings, enable photo compression and choose Standard or Small resolution.
Preload Videos
Preload videos when connected to Wi-Fi so you can watch them later without using data.
Turn Off Autoplay
Disable autoplaying videos in the News Feed settings. This prevents videos from playing automatically and consuming data.
Troubleshooting Facebook Lite
Here are solutions for some common issues when using Facebook Lite:
App Crashes on Launch
- Force stop the app from device settings > apps > Facebook Lite > force stop.
- Clear app data and cache.
- Uninstall and reinstall the app.
- Update your device software and Facebook Lite to latest versions.
Can’t Login
- Check your internet connection.
- Clear app cache and data then retry.
- Make sure you are entering the correct email/password.
- Try resetting your Facebook password.
News Feed Not Loading
- Check if you have connectivity issues or if Facebook is down.
- Force stop the app and clear cache.
- Reinstall the app if needed.
- Try logging out and back in.
Stories Not Playing
- Check for software updates for both device and app.
- Allow permission for storage access if prompted.
- Clear cache and force stop app.
- Uninstall and reinstall Facebook Lite.
Can’t Send Messages
- Switch on airplane mode briefly then turn it off to get a new IP.
- Clear app data and restart your device.
- Check account for any restrictions or blocks.
- Update to latest Facebook Lite version.
Conclusion
Facebook Lite provides an efficient and light alternative to use Facebook on slow networks and low-end devices. Follow the guide above to download or update to the latest version of Facebook Lite on your Android or iOS device. Enable the data saver options and tweak app settings to get the best performance. Use the troubleshooting tips outlined to resolve any common issues you may face. Facebook Lite makes it easy to stay connected with friends and family across networks.