New Delhi, Sept 5 (UNI) Meta-backed social media platform Facebook tried to revive its classic feature of ‘Poke’ that used to capture a friend’s attention with a virtual nudge of sorts.
Originally launched in 2004, the Poke allowed users to send a virtual nudge to friends — a simple tap that could mean hello, a reminder, or just playful fun.
Over the years, the feature quietly slipped into the background as Facebook rolled out new tools such as reactions, Stories, and Messenger and the company transformed from just a social media networking site to Metaverse.
In a fresh attempt to reintroduce it, Facebook announced the revival with a carousel post on Instagram, “Sending Pokes just got easier,” accompanied by the tagline “It’s time to start poking again.”
The move gives users another lightweight way to interact beyond likes and comments. While details on the rollout remain limited, the announcement signals Facebook’s push to re-engage its vast user base with features that once defined its early years.
Behind the nostalgia, however, lies a fresh upgrade: the ‘Poke button’ is now easier to find, appearing directly on profiles and in search results.
A dedicated page at facebook.com/pokes allows users to keep track of their interactions. On this page, Facebook users can track their ‘Poke Counts’ with friends.
Facebook ‘Pokes’ appeals to Gen Z by offering low-effort, fun, and nostalgic ways to connect with friends. The social media giant also wants to gain popularity as Gen Zs or young millennials can find interest in ‘Poke Wars.’
‘Poke Wars’ refers to the back-and-forth use of Facebook’s Poke feature. In Poke Wars, users repeatedly poke each other to get attention or engage in a friendly battle.
The revival of ‘Poke’ marks a push to reconnect with younger audiences by mixing classic features with modern, gamified elements.
