Facebook changes critical to site’s long-term survival - Chicago Sun-Times

Excerpt from an Andy Ihnatko Facebook perspective

It’s a shrewd survival move. Facebook has had a big problem that was only going to get worse over time: Its sole currency is the presence of people you know, and social network users are notoriously fickle. Most Facebook users would switch to a new network if their friends and family also switched. Thursday’s moves give people a reason to spend more time inside Facebook proper instead of clicking in and out; the service is becoming more like a socially-powered version of iTunes, delivering content created or recommended by people you know and trust.

The new Facebook will roll out gradually to users over the coming weeks. Facebook’s main problem remains: It’s a huge time-sink, and its ability to track and disseminate information about you has only become broader and scarier. But at least Big Brother has a prettier face, and can help you find something great on Spotify.

Facebook changes critical to site’s long-term survival - Chicago Sun-Times