On certain devices, especially foldable phones, the "Free or Data Mode" bar obstructs essential functionalities of Facebook, such as the search function, the "+" icon for adding content, and the Facebook Messenger symbols.
Users have an option to resolve this issue by opting out of Basic Mode. The process involves clicking on the "hamburger" menu icon, navigating to "settings and privacy", proceeding to the "Mobile Center", and choosing to opt out of Basic Mode. After this action, a pop-up window prompts users to confirm their choice, and once confirmed and the app restarted, the obstructing black bar disappears.
Free Mode is designed to be data-efficient. While in Free Mode, certain features are restricted, such as automatic loading of images and videos and the inability to play games. This mode is beneficial for those with weak internet connections or limited data plans. Facebook may automatically activate Free Mode based on detected internet conditions, but users can also manually switch to this mode.
Data Mode is the default setting for the Facebook app. It allows users full access to all features, including viewing images, videos, and playing games. However, Data Mode uses more data and may not be ideal for those with limited data packages or weak connections.
The exact reason the Free or Data Mode bar obstructs icons on certain devices, notably foldable phones, is yet to be determined. It's speculated to be a conflict between the Facebook app's design and the display designs of foldable and some other phone models. If users face this issue, the suggested solution is to opt out of Basic Mode.
TECH TIPS: How to fix free and data mode bar obstruction on Facebook
An annoying black bar in Facebook's Free and Data Modes obstructs essential features on some devices, especially foldable phones; here's how to regain full access
At a glance
On certain devices, particularly foldable phones, the "Free or Data Mode" bar may obstruct the search function, the "+" icon for adding content, and the Facebook Messenger symbols. This is a known issue, and there is a workaround.
To address the issue of the black bar obstructing certain functionalities on Facebook mobile, such as the search, add content, and FB messenger icons, you can choose to opt out of Basic Mode. Begin by clicking on the "hamburger" menu icon, represented by the three horizontal bars. Next, select "settings and privacy." Scroll down to the "Mobile Center" section. After that, click the gear icon situated in the upper right corner of your screen. Upon selecting "opt out of basic Mode," a pop-up window will appear, prompting you to confirm. Simply click the "opt-out" button. Once you restart the Facebook app on your mobile device, you'll notice the black bar has disappeared.
Follow these steps:
What is Free Mode?
Free Mode is a data-efficient mode that limits the features of the Facebook app to reduce data usage. For example, in Free Mode, images and videos will not load automatically, and you will not be able to play games. However, you can still browse your feed, read and write messages, and post status updates.
Free Mode is enabled automatically when Facebook detects that you have a weak internet connection or a limited data plan. However, you can also manually switch to Free Mode at any time.
What is data mode?
Data mode is the default mode, and it allows you to view and enjoy all of the features of the Facebook app, including images, videos, and games. However, data mode can use a significant amount of data, so it is not recommended for users with limited data plans or poor internet connections.
Why does the Free or Data Mode bar cover some icons on some devices?
I am still determining the exact reason why the Free or Data Mode bar covers icons on some devices, especially foldable phones. However, it is likely due to a conflict between the way that the Facebook app is designed and the way that foldable and some other phones display apps. If this happens, you can opt out of Basic Mode to turn off the bar.