This afternoon Facebook threw developers for a loop when the applications link at the top of the site was modified so that only 8 applications would be displayed. May developers started to lash back in the developer forum only to have the noise quelled by Fadebook. This afternoon Facebook sent out an update to the press group notifying them of updated screenshots including the one I’ve displayed below.
The most recent screenshots show an “Applications” link within the status bar and no longer in the header. Additionally, there appears to be 6 application shortcuts, which we are assuming to be the user’s top 6 applications bookmarks. This should definitely reduce some of the complaints from developers but it will most definitely not completely heal all the wounds.
Developers have been taken on a roller coaster of a ride as Facebook has continuously adjusted the roll-out timeframe for the new facebook design. This has placed many developers on edge as they continue to return to broken applications and site features that reduce application virality. This has made the platform a challenging environment to work in for many.
For those applications that remain atop the leader board, things are a little more relaxed but still stressful. Just because some companies have more resources than others doesn’t mean that the environment is any better. For now, Facebook developers have been placed on standby while Facebook makes last minute changes as the new site design is rolled out worldwide.
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this looks like windows to me now, Application is the "Start" button and the apps are the quick launch, not bad but hopefully applications pops open a div similar to the start menu on windows. but ya it did take me quite a while to find this in the screenshot :-/
Comment by Mike — September 10, 2008 @ 6:40 pm
@Mike:Have you ever thought that's because it's a really small screenshot?
Of course it took you a while to find it. When it is shown on Facebook, you will be able to see it perfectly well 
Comment by Calum — September 10, 2008 @ 7:09 pm
I keep my chat OFF so i don't have that “status bar” (easily confused with where you update your “status”)… it took me a solid 2 minutes to figure out where the apps where in that screenshot – not a good sign.
Full speed ahead on the website, gotta get off these app platforms – it's too much risk for far too little reward these days.
On this note, I haven't even used an app in weeks due to the new design.
Comment by Mike — September 10, 2008 @ 10:34 pm