subject: Facebook's upgrade from FBML to iFrames – good or bad? [print this page] Facebook's upgrade from FBML to iFrames good or bad?
As Facebook makes the shift from its proprietary FBML to iFrames for fan pages, there's mixed reaction on how it will impact Facebook users and marketers.
Facebook announced the upgrade for custom pages from FBML, a version of HTML to iFrames on 11 February 2011. They informed users that effective 11 March 2011, pages would not be able to add the Static FBML app or create new FBML apps.
Static FBML, a Facebook app enabled users who were not HTML or CSS savvy to create custom tabs for their fan pages. The change to iFrames will mean that these fan page owners must educate themselves about how to use iFrames and PHP if they want to continue adding customised tabs to their fan pages. Sure enough, there are development companies such Wildfire and Involver, ready to help users create iFrame apps and fangating through free tools.
The question is will existing tabs built with FBML continue to function? While Facebook assures users that this is possible, FBML will be phased out sooner than later. For those who are not keen on learning the ins and outs of iFrames, there are plenty of third-party tools available. Facebook users can also benefit from a series of tutorials on how to add iFrame apps to the Facebook page from HyperArt, a web development company.
While Facebook's move from FBML to iFrames will mean more exciting apps and better engagement along with a more integrated fan page with the business's main website, the DIYers will have a difficult time adjusting to the change since marketers must quickly find a provider who will help them build and host the iFrame. For third party app developers, this means more business. It also means that more Facebook users will be exposed to malware. When a new Facebook page is set up with a default landing tab including an app with an iFrame that has JavaScript, it can easily redirect the user to just about any site of its choice, including those that can harm the user's system and crash it.
Still, in spite of the issues perceived, the outcome will be positive for regular users, marketers and consumers alike. After all, iFrames brings on the full potential of HTML and more.
