Facebook Messenger Download & Payments Feature: How to Get Started

Messenger will not only be an extension forced into the throats of Facebook users, as it looks to be an electronic wallet in the near future.

At this point, the Menlo Park, California company will be rolling a free payments feature within the application, providing users quicker access to financial transactions.

According to the Los Angeles Times, the feature will arrive in the U.S. "over the coming months." It comes to the iOS, Android and desktop.

The service isn't meant to rival the likes of Apple Pay or PayPal, BetaNews writes. Instead, the feature is based from the system used in the processing of payments among gamers and advertisers.

The New York Times says analysts have predicted that Facebook could extend the feature if it succeeds. Consumers, for instance, might soon be able to purchase goods directly from advertisers.

So how does Messenger's payment scheme works?

First-time users are required to add Visa or MasterCard debit cards under their respective Facebook accounts. A pin may then be added for an extra layer of security. Apple iOS users can make use of Touch ID.

Facebook has also provided instructions via its Newsroom. Check them out below:

Sending

1. To send money, the sender opens the Messenger app and initiates (or continues) conversation with the recipient. Transactions, currently, are meant only between friends.

2. The sender taps the $ icon and enters the amount he wishes to send.

3. Once the amount is entered, the sender taps "Pay" located in the top right corner of the app panel.

4. The sender will be asked to provide debit card information.

Receiving

1. To receive money, the recipient opens his Messenger conversation with the sender.

2. The recipient taps "Add Card" in the message and provides debit card information.

Today, Messenger is one of the world's largest communication platforms, and now that money is more involved, security must never be ignored.

Facebook has emphasized running a secure network, branding itself as "a dependable and trusted payments processor for game players and advertisers since 2007."

From its newsroom, Facebook explains that it processes over a million transactions on a daily basis. The company states, "We use secure systems that encrypt the connection between you and Facebook as well as your card information when you ask us to store it for you. We use layers of software and hardware protection that meet the highest industry standards."

"These payment systems are kept in a secured environment that is separate from other parts of the Facebook network and that receive additional monitoring and control. A team of anti-fraud specialists monitor for suspicious purchase activity to help keep accounts safe," Facebook adds.

Haven't got Messenger yet? No pressure, but it may be installed for iOS, Android and PC now.