Facebook will soon allow users to use a 7-second looping video as their profile photo, which will play for any visitor to a user's social network profile. The more animated substitute for a static image is one of multiple new features including temporarily changes to profile pics; one-line Bio and About (work/education) fields, and Feature Photos.
Facebook Product Managers Tony Hsieh and Aigerim Shorman made a recent Newsroom post. They shared that profile videos will add a new dimension to profiles.
Meanwhile, the temporary profile photo is ideal for situations such as the week before a birthday, big sports event, vacation, or Throwback Thursday photograph, according to PC Mag. Such short-term pics can show major events or important causes.
Facebook's upgrade follows the Celebrat Pride rainbow filter that was launched in June, allowing users to show their support of same-sex marriage via a colorful user profile. The social media giant reported that over 26 million people used the filter.
Facebook is also adding a one-line, 100-character Bio field above profiles, where users can add a little information about themselves, according to Tech Crunch. There will also be an About field that can include education and work details, along with a maximum of five Feature Photos.
The social network is also making some tweaks to mobile profiles including a bigger, and more visible main image or video. Facebook is testing the features with some iPhone users and will likely start a wide roll-out soon.
The changes to Facebook's profile might just seem to improve its form more than its function. However, it could boost the company's business like its revamping of Web profiles during 2010.