Facebook Lite is a slimmed down version of the Facebook app that uses less data and works better on slower networks. While Facebook Lite is available for Android devices, it is not natively supported on iOS and iPhones. However, there are a few workarounds that allow you to access Facebook Lite on an iPhone.
Why Use Facebook Lite on iPhone?
Here are some of the key reasons you may want to use Facebook Lite on your iPhone:
- Saves data – The app is less than 1MB in size and uses far less data than the main Facebook app.
- Faster performance – Loads faster on slower networks/older phones due to stripped down design.
- Better for traveling – Use less mobile data when roaming or on limited connectivity.
- Increased battery life – Lower resource usage improves battery life.
- Less clutter – Interface is simplified without access to games, events, etc.
Method 1: Use Facebook Lite Web
The easiest way to access Facebook Lite on an iPhone is to use the Facebook Lite website:
- Open the Safari web browser on your iPhone.
- Go to www.facebook.com/lite
- Log into your Facebook account on the site.
- Bookmark the page to your home screen for quick access.
This allows you to access a mobile-optimized web version of Facebook Lite. While not a full native app experience, it provides the basic Facebook Lite functionality.
Pros:
- Simple, quick setup
- Uses minimal data
- Works on any iPhone model
Cons:
- Not a native app, web-based
- Missing some app features
- Requires an internet connection
Method 2: Install Via Third-Party App
Another option is to install Facebook Lite via a third-party app available on the App Store. Here are the steps:
- Install the free “Lite Apps – Install Lite Apps” app
- Open the Lite Apps app
- Search for and select Facebook Lite
- Tap “Install” to download Facebook Lite IPA
- Open Settings > General > Device Management on your iPhone
- Trust the Lite Apps developer certificate
- Open Facebook Lite from your home screen
This provides a full native app-like experience for Facebook Lite. However, you need to re-install occasionally as the certificate expires.
Pros:
- Native app experience
- Extra features compared to web
- App icon on home screen
Cons:
- Need to reinstall when certificate expires
- Requires trusting third party app developer
- Potential security/privacy concerns
Method 3: Use Android Emulator
You can also access Facebook Lite on your iPhone by running an Android emulator app and installing Facebook Lite for Android.
- Install an Android emulator app like AMIDuOS
- Create an Android profile in the emulator
- Open the Google Play Store in the emulator
- Search for and install Facebook Lite
- Log into your Facebook account
This gives you the full native Facebook Lite app experience. However, performance may be slow and emulation requires more resources.
Pros:
- Full native app experience
- Official Facebook Lite app
- Consistent experience
Cons:
- Emulator can be slow/resource intensive
- Complicated setup process
- Not optimized for iPhone
Other Facebook Lightweight Options
If the above methods don’t work for you, consider using one of the following alternative Facebook apps optimized for iPhone:
Messenger Lite
Messenger Lite provides a fast, simple version of Facebook Messenger. It’s an official Facebook app available on the App Store.
Friendly Lite
Friendly Lite is a third-party Facebook app focused on speed and privacy. It blocks ads, trackers and has options to limit data usage.
Swipe for Facebook
Swipe provides a lightweight and customizable alternative Facebook client. Popular features include messenger and chat heads.
Metal for Facebook
Metal is an open source, minimalist Facebook app. It has a clean interface and focuses on core Facebook functionality.
Conclusion
While there is no native Facebook Lite iOS app, you have a few options to access a lightweight Facebook experience on your iPhone:
- Use the mobile web version at www.facebook.com/lite
- Install via a third-party app like Lite Apps
- Run Facebook Lite for Android in an emulator
- Alternatively, use Messenger Lite, Friendly Lite, Swipe, or Metal
The web version is the simplest option, while a third-party app provides a native-app like experience. Consider your priorities for performance, privacy, and ease of use to choose the best lightweight Facebook option for your iPhone.