Facebook 576.0.0.42.73 for Android

Facebook 576.0.0.42.73 for Android is the current release of Meta's official app, and you can download it free from Google Play. It brings the full social network to a phone: news feed, groups, pages, events, Marketplace and notifications.

Key facts at a glance

• App: Facebook
• Version: 576.0.0.42.73
• Developer: Meta
• Platform: Android
• License: freeware
• Updated: September 2026
• Size: about 75.36 MB according to catalogue data
• Service launched: 4 February 2004, founded by Mark Zuckerberg
• Website: facebook.com

A short guide to what the app does

Facebook began as a website and remains a social networking service at heart, but on Android most people meet it as an app. The home tab shows posts from friends, pages and groups you follow, mixed with suggestions. Groups are where much of the activity now happens, from neighbourhood noticeboards and parent chats to hobby clubs with thousands of members. Marketplace lets you list things for sale with a couple of photos and chat with buyers. Events handles invitations and reminders, and the notifications tab keeps track of replies and tags. Messaging lives in a separate Messenger app, so if you want to chat, you will be asked to install that as well.

Step-by-step: install and set up

1. Open Google Play and search for Facebook.
2. Check that the developer is Meta Platforms, then tap Install.
3. Open the app and sign in, or create an account with a phone number or email.
4. Go to Settings and privacy to choose who can see your posts and friend list.
5. Turn on two-factor authentication under the security settings.

Will it run on my phone?

Google Play handles compatibility: if the Install button appears, your phone is supported. On older or low-memory devices the full app can feel slow; that is exactly what Facebook Lite was made for.

Safety tips

Only install from Google Play or via facebook.com. Modified versions that promise extra features or hidden activity ask for your password and put the account at risk. Be sceptical of messages asking you to log in again through a link, and review app permissions such as location and contacts after installing.

How much does it cost?

Nothing. The app is free, and so is posting, joining groups and selling on Marketplace. Paid options exist mainly for advertisers who promote posts.

Pros and cons

• Pro: groups and Marketplace are genuinely useful locally.
• Pro: frequent updates from the developer.
• Con: heavy on battery and storage over time.
• Con: chat requires a separate Messenger app.

Alternatives in the same category

Facebook Lite is the lighter sibling. Threads and Twitter focus on short public posts, Reddit on topic-based communities, and Instagram on photos and Reels.