Facebook’s newsletter platform is already up and running and aims to put creators at the forefront. Here’s how it works and what to expect.
FacebookThe Bulletin Newsletter service is already live, giving users an insight into a flexible news platform that puts creators at the forefront. However, there are a couple of things that readers and aspiring journalists should keep in mind, as the platform is still in its early stages. At the same time, Bulletin highlights the extent to which the latest billionaire technology company has come since 2004.
Over the years, Facebook has expanded its reach far beyond its roots in the social networking platform, from the acquisition of Instagram and the WhatsApp messaging service to entering the virtual reality market through the purchase of Oculus VR. With more than two billion active Facebook users, many of whom share news regularly from the platform itself, it was only a matter of time before the company tested the newsletter service business model. Last month, Facebook began launching podcasts into its app and has now introduced a new platform that further complements the feature.
According to Facebook, Bulletin is a one-stop shop where freelance writers, industry experts and content creators can present their written pieces and podcasts in one place. The Facebook Newsletter provides freelance writers with the means to find their audience, as well as offering them a wealth of tools that can help maximize their reach and earn revenue with content. At the same time, it also offers readers an eclectic paid and free content resource to read or listen to, where subscription payments are securely managed through Facebook Pay.
How the Facebook Newsletter works
Facebook aims to make Bulletin independent of its social media platform, which means users won’t have to log in to read content and will prioritize creators ’promotional and branding material over the company’s own. Creators have access to various publishing, analytics, and moderation tools that allow them to basically create their own standalone website. Of course, creators can also use Facebook’s own platform tools, such as pages, groups, and live audio rooms, to help build their audience and distribute content. Other benefits include access to legal resources, financial services and design support. However, what is possibly the biggest advantage is the freedom to dictate subscription prices without Facebook reducing revenue again.
For now, those interested may have to wait for the global launch of Bulletin, as Facebook is not accepting new creators at this time. Similarly, while users can already start reading articles on the Newsletter’s website, it’s worth noting that the content is currently a bit limited. At the time, it should be clearer how Facebook’s nascent newsroom platform faces the likes of Substack, Patreon and Revue, and whether its stricter disinformation policies will help give it a credibility advantage over rival services that they have existed for longer.
Source: Facebook
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