FACEBOOK TESTS OUT COMMENT DOWNVOTE

FACEBOOK is testing out a new feature that lets users downvote comments — which could herald one of the biggest overhauls in years to the social network.

In a series of tweets, tech reporter Taylor Lorenz posted pictures of her Facebook feed showing the option to “downvote” comments, alongside the Like and Reply buttons. Multiple other people have since reported seeing the option in their feeds.

Comparing the feature to Reddit, where users can downvote or upvote content, Lorenz wrote: “Facebook is testing downvoting comments. Very Reddit tbh!”

The feature does look similar to Reddit’s format — and it captured the attention of Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian Sr, who tweeted in response: “Sincerest form of flattery! Wish I’d trademarked it and ‘upvote’ when I came up with it.”

A downvote or dislike button has long been a rumoured next step for Facebook, but until now the social media platform has mostly stuck with the positiveonly thumbs-up button.

But it appears the feature is real — despite some assuming the pictures were fake.

However, people are already questioning whether adding a downvote button is a good idea.

Responding to the original post, one person wrote: “I was just thinking that Facebook needed more negativity.”

– Chelsea Ritschel