Facebook Trials Full-screen Video Experience, Ditching Newsfeed

WHO:

The Hollywood Reporter - Tom Alison, head of Facebook

The Verge - Meta, Facebook's parent company

WHAT:

Techmeme - Facebook plans to test a full-screen "immersive video" player, replacing the newsfeed.

The Hollywood Reporter - Facebook will begin testing a video-first version of the app in select international markets.

The Hollywood Reporter - Users will have the option to opt out and return to the classic feed.

The Verge - Meta reported a loss of 20 million users in the first quarter of 2026.

The Hollywood Reporter - Reels, Meta's short-form video product, is now a $50 billion run-rate business.

WHERE:

Techmeme - The testing will occur in select international markets.

The Hollywood Reporter - Potential expansion to the U.S. is planned for next year.

WHEN:

The Hollywood Reporter - Testing of the new video-first version will begin this year.

The Hollywood Reporter - The potential expansion to the U.S. is planned for next year.

WHY:

The Hollywood Reporter - The changes are driven by user demand for more immersive, visual, video-forward experiences.

The Verge - Facebook is making changes to retain users who might switch to rival platforms like TikTok.

HOW:

The Hollywood Reporter - Facebook will implement a full-screen video player that users see upon opening the app.

The Hollywood Reporter - A free Verified program will allow users to verify their identity in exchange for a badge.

(UPDATED July 25, 2026 08:35 UTC)

Meta, the parent company of Facebook, is set to begin testing a new video-first version of the app in select international markets this year, featuring a full-screen "immersive video" player that will replace the traditional newsfeed. Users will have the option to opt out and return to the classic feed, as the changes aim to meet growing demand for more visual experiences and to help retain users who may be considering rival platforms like TikTok. Additionally, Meta recently reported a loss of 20 million users in the first quarter of 2026, while its short-form video product, Reels, has reached a remarkable $50 billion run-rate business.