THE NEWS WRAP: Facebook testing basic app for low-end Android devices

Facebook is testing a new standalone app designed for low-end Android devices in emerging markets.

TechCrunch reports the app quietly launched in a number of countries in Asia and Africa over the weekend – including Vietnam, South Africa, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe.

The app is believed to be aimed at fast-growing markets in Africa and Southeast Asia, and has been built to accommodate Android devices of 252 KB in size and those on poor internet connections.

Oculus turns to making virtual reality movies

Oculus has announced it is exploring “VR cinema”, with an internal team focusing on the potential of virtual reality storytelling.

The internal team, known as Oculus Story Studio, will aim to make the cinema experience even more compelling, according to The Verge.

The news comes as the group’s first movie, Lost, debuts this week.

Pluralsight acquires online learning startup Code School for $36 million

Online technology training platform Pluralsight has acquired Florida-based startup Code School for $36 million.

The acquisition is Pluralsight’s sixth in the past 18 months and part of an aggressive expansion into the online learning space.

Founder and chief executive of Pluralsight, Aaron Skonnard, said in a statement the acquisition will allow the company to reach developers at all stages of their careers – including those with limited coding experience.

“Together we will continue to help professionals remain relevant and ensure businesses stay on top of the latest trends and technologies,” he said.

Overnight

The Dow Jones Industrial Average is down 0.07%, falling 12.68 points to 17,659.92. The Australian dollar is currently trading at US0.79 cents.

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