Facebook accidentally rolls out, then removes Snapchat competitor Slingshot

BY Kelly Hodgkins

Published 9 Jun 2014

facebook-slingshotFacebook has a renewed focus on mobile apps with the company recently introducing a new Facebook Paper app, improving its dedicated Facebook Messenger app and now leaking a new photo video sharing app called Slingshot that debuted internationally and was immediately removed, reports TechCrunch.

The Slingshot app offers a twist on traditional messaging by allowing you to “sling” a photo or video message to your friends. In order for your friends to view the content, they have to sling something back to you. Some users may find the forced sharing tacky, but Facebook is likely hoping the vast majority of users will be curious enough about the slings around them that will share with friends as well.

The Slingshot app was available in a few markets but was quickly pulled as soon it was discovered. A Facebook spokesperson confirmed that the partial release was a mistake.

“earlier today, we accidentally released a version of Slingshot, a new app we’re working on. With Slingshot, you’ll be able to share everyday moments with lots of people at once. It’ll be ready soon and we’re excited for you to try it out.”

At the same time Facebook is planning a new social messaging app, the company is shaking up its messaging team, hiring David Marcus, current president of eBay’s PayPal payments subsidiary, to lead up its messaging team. According to the Wall Street Journal, Marcus will be tasked with overseeing Facebook Messeanger and other Facebook messaging products, but will not control the recently acquired WhatsApp. 

Are you interested in another messaging app from Facebook or have you had enough of social sharing?