Facebook Messenger tips and tricks – including group video calls and a ‘secret’ basketball game

FACEBOOK Messenger is all about chatting with your mates, but it's got loads of hidden tricks you can try, too.

From a secret basketball game to weird augmented reality features, we've rounded up some of the best Messenger tools below.

1. Make 1:1 and Group Voice and Video Calls

Although the name might suggest otherwise, Messenger isn't just for messages.

Like WhatsApp, you can also take part in video or voice calls through Facebook's app.

Within a conversation, tap on the phone or video icons in the upper right hand corner of the screen.

You can add up to eight people in group voice and video calls.

2. Add AR filters to photos and videos

If you're looking to spruce up pics or videos on your Facebook Story, you can always add an augmented reality filter.

These add cartoon-ish text or graphics to your posts to make them pop, much like the AR filters on Instagram and Snapchat.

To use them, simply open Messenger, click on your Story (the + sign at the top left beside your friends’ stories) and select the one you like.

You can also find the AR filters while on a video call with your friends. Tap the smiley-face icon and select an AR filter.

3. Access and send stickers through Messenger

Stickers are another way to make your messages more fun.

Open a conversation and tap on the smiley face in the composer, which will bring up your sticker options.

Tap “+” to access the sticker store, where you can download sticker packs for free and select from options based on your mood. You can also search for any sticker based on a keyword by typing the word into the search bar.

To send a sticker, simply tap on the one you like and it will automatically fire off to your mate.

4. Send Short Video Messages

Sometimes a text or photo isn't enough.

You can send a video up to 15 seconds long on Messenger by pushing down the shutter circle for 15 seconds or less on the camera.

5. Unlock hidden games

There are certain messages you can send that unlock hidden games.

Send a basketball emoji then tap it to unlock a game.

You can also type "@FacebookChess" to launch a chess challenge.

Alternatively, tap the More button in the toolbar, and then click the controller icon.

That will generate a list of games that you can play with the friend you're chatting to.

6. Activate Dark Mode

Facebook recently added a Dark Mode to Messenger.

It's designed to make the app easier to use in the dark, putting less strain on your eyes.

Go to the main Messenger menu then click on your profile photo.

At the top of the options list is a Dark Mode setting – simply toggle it on and you're all set.

7. Request and send money

It's also possible to send and request money through Messenger.

First set up your payment card – go to your Messenger profile, then choose Payments and add your card.

Then open a chat with a friend and tap the More button and choose Payments.

It's then easy to send money or ask for a payment from any of your pals.

Of course, they'll need to register a payment method too for the transaction to complete.

In other news, Instagram recently launched a new 'Snapchat-killer' app called Threads.

This Facebook Dating feature lets you find secret admirers in your friends list.

And, a huge Facebook leak recently revealed the phone numbers of 400million users – including 18million Brits.

Do you know any great Facebook Messenger tricks? Let us know in the comments!

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