Facebook @Desktop

Ever since Facebook's popularity started to skyrocket, it became not only a means of getting in touch with acquaintances, but also a suitable place for businesses to grow and even entertainment. However, you need to put your web browser to good use in order to stay connected, unless using a specialized application such as Facebook @Desktop, which makes socializing a little more comfortable.

Before actually getting to use the application you must first pay attention to the setup process, as you might end up with a different home page and other applications installed as well. Other than this, the installation runs smooth and finishes in several seconds.

You need to provide your credentials once the main window is up, and before you know it, Facebook is on your desktop. You gain access to three main tabs. The first gives you several details regarding your location and weather, with the possibility to have it displayed either in Celsius or Fahrenheit.

The “Facebook” tab offers quick access links to new events, such as shares, messages, pokes, notifications and friend requests. If you're feeling inspired, a text field lets you easily share your thoughts with others by posting a message on your wall.

Last but not least, you can view all Facebook activity just as in a regular browser, in the homonimous tab. However, it does not run so smooth, with the tendency of getting stuck and having too many load times.

Minimizing the application hides it to the system tray where it quietly sits until new events occur and you are notified by a tooltip. From the try icon you can access the settings menu and modify when alerts should be made or set the application to run at startup.

All things considered, Facebook @Desktop successfully does what the name suggests. However, there is a little room for improvement, a little time spent with the application leaving the impression of a rather poor design here and there. However, when notifications are important, the application greatly comes in handy.