Facebook Messenger adds support for admin privileges

Facebook is adding a much-needed feature in group chats to its Facebook Messenger app, Group Admin privileges. Adin privileges are present in rival apps like WhatsApp and Google’s Allo, and its odd that the firm took so long to bring the feature to its Messenger app.

“Admin privileges allow you to approve new members before they join your group chat. This is especially helpful in large group chats with people you may not yet be connected to, like when you’re planning a friend’s surprise birthday party with different groups of friends. ” explained Facebook’s Drew Moxon in a blog post, “Admins also have the ability to remove members if needed, and promote or demote any other person in the group chat as an admin.”

Admin Privileges will also be rolling out to Facebook  Workplace Chat, the firm’s slack competitor.

Aside from admin privileges, Facebook is allowing users to share a link to a group chat, allowing users to join group chats from a shared link. Group admins will have some control over the who joins the chat, and Facebook lets you set whether you want your group chat to be easily accessible or to require assent from Admins.

Facebook is rolling this update out to users in the coming weeks.