Facebook will soon be rolling out a new app created to gather market insights from its users. The company is going to pay users for the data they receive. It is understood that once the app is downloaded, it will transmit data on the other apps being used on the device to see how much time you spend on them, the device you are using and more.
This isn’t the first time Facebook has tried this type of market research, as Apple had previously pulled two of Facebook’s research apps, for paying for data from users as young as 13. With this newest addition of the app, Facebook believes it has learned from its past mistakes and has introduced an age restriction of 18 and have created it for the Google Play Store only. Facebook is also taking transparency more seriously, from the ads on their main platform to the app, and explaining what data they will be buying from the users.
This need for transparency was made clear in their announcement for Study, “We believe this work is important to help us improve our products for the people who use Facebook.”
They added: “We also know that this kind of research must be clear about what people are signing up for, how their information will be collected and used, and how to opt out of the research at any time.”
The app Study will launch in the US and India but won’t be open to everyone, as they will use targeted ads on Facebook. If the ad is clicked, the user will be asked to register and if they qualify, will be taken to the Play Store to download the app and confirm their participation.
Facebook has assured users that the data they collect won’t be used for targeted ads, will not be added to their Facebook account and will not be sold to a third party. They have also stated that Facebook won’t be able to view any private data such as messages, images or passwords.
With the Cambridge Analytica scandal and wide spreading fake news, many social media users are increasingly concerned about their privacy and how businesses use their data. Here at Umbrella, we believe that businesses need to be considerate to people’ concerns, and those being able to address them should be able to maintain a good and trustworthy relationship with their followers.
Would you sell your data to Facebook and would you still trust Facebook with your data after their previous issues with data?
Our social media experts always stay at the forefront of social media and digital marketing change. With many years of experience and variety of skills amongst our team, we are the go-to place for all your marketing needs! Get in touch now: 01244 515569 or email: hello@umbrellamt.com.
