Facebook Email?

There has been a lot of talk and speculation about Facebook since they newly revealed that they had acquired the Fb.com domain.  I recently came across this article where there have been many discussions about the upcoming Web 2.0 Summit meeting taking place Monday.

Mashable sources indicate that from the following invitations they are able to conclude that the meeting will be concerning their new overhaul in the messaging system. “The invitations we received prominently display the inbox icon used in the company’s iPhone and Android apps. That’s why we believe this event will almost certainly be about a revamping of Facebook’s messaging and inbox system.”

Many questions arise when considering that Facebook has proven to exceed limits and provide continuous innovation as the social media world changes. Will Facebook now be competing as an email provider?  Being such a power player one has to wonder if they have the tools to compete with others such as Google or Yahoo.

Whatever the meeting may reveal, I completely agree from a public relations perspective, that if Facebook does launch an upgrade of their email system, it will not have such a drastic effect on the business world. Email providers like Google have nothing to worry about because users will not be retiring their accounts anytime soon.

Although Facebook is one of the top social media channels of communication, I think it connects people on more of a personal note. Even though we have email messaging capabilities, I do not see professionals turning to @facebook.com as a medium of conducting business.

The article reinforces that many corporations already have banned Facebook in professional settings because it is seen as a waste of time or potential risk. Employers will not be as impressed with your resumes sent via facebook verse a Google address.

The ultimate motive of becoming the top contact list is evident, but although the opportunity and resources are there for a family/friend contact basis-I agree that in a professional matter it won’t be the top choice.

http://mashable.com/2010/11/12/facebook-fb-email/

http://mashable.com/2010/11/11/facebook-announces-special-event-is-it-about-to-overhaul-messages/