Facebook Test Will Let You Message Strangers For $1 325
Spy Handler writes "According to PC Mag, 'Facebook is testing a feature that will let select users pay $1 to send messages to people with whom they have no connection on the social network. The $1 fee will open a thread with a non-Facebook friend. If that person replies to your note, you won't have to pay again to respond to them.' Facebook explained the test thus: 'Several commentators and researchers have noted that imposing a financial cost on the sender may be the most effective way to discourage unwanted messages and facilitate delivery of messages that are relevant and useful. This test is designed to address situations where neither social nor algorithmic signals are sufficient. For example, if you want to send a message to someone you heard speak at an event but are not friends with, or if you want to message someone about a job opportunity, you can use this feature to reach their Inbox. For the receiver, this test allows them to hear from people who have an important message to send them.'"
Bill Gates (Score:3, Informative)
Someone copied Bill Gates' 1995 book "The Road Ahead," where he predicted charging fees to the senders.
Re:Ok...Questions (Score:4, Informative)
Is this different from Linkedin's paid messages as those are work/career context that has a precedent?
One is on Facebook and the other is on LinkedIn.
Is this different from Postal mail?
The search feature is different, delivery is faster, the cost is higher, and in the end the person doesn't know where you live.