Facebook is updating it’s Android app directly from the app itself bypassing the Google Play store. Usually app updates should go through Google Play store, and the Play app in Android devices shows notifications for the the updated apps. But the Facebook app shows notifications itself and users can download directly from the app.
The new update shows up only when you are on a Wi-Fi connection, Facebook pushes the update directly to its app. Facebook doesn’t want to waste your mobile data for updating it’s app so it only pushes when you are on Wi-Fi. To make it clear after getting the update you have to accept the installation, it is not silent and automated update like Chrome browser update. On the update page you will see the change log for the update and buttons for installation and uninstalling the app.
Facebook help pages note that this process is to make sure everyone one is using the latest version of the app.
We’re working quickly to improve Facebook for Android and want to make sure everyone is using the best version of our app. Updates will download when you are on Wi-Fi, and they won’t rely on your data plan.
Some users thought that the update is not usual and might be because of malware activity, in Facebook Help forums, a Facebook employee, addressed concerns saying that this update is legitimate and not something related to the malware.
Hi all. I work at Facebook on the Android app and wanted to mention that this is legitimate. We’re working quickly to improve Facebook for Android and want to make sure everyone is using the best version of our app. You’ll experience these updates when you are on Wi-Fi, and they won’t rely on your data plan.
Via Liliputing
