Facebook has launched the Study from Facebook app. Only available on Android and reported by TechCrunch today, the app is Facebook’s attempt to be less creepy about collecting data from research participants.
The Study app will warn you that Facebook will learn which apps are installed on your phone, how long you use those apps for, and the names of features you use in other apps. Facebook will also learn the country you’re in, what device you use the Study app on, and the network type.
Facebook plans to recruit adults age 18 and older in the U.S. and India through advertisements. The social network will display the ads on its own app and others to those that use and don’t use Facebook. Participants from other countries will eventually be recruitable, but not for the time being.
Clicking the ad will bring you to Applause’s website. Applause is Facebook’s research operations partner for the Study from Facebook app. From there, the website will inform you of the Facebook partnership, the Study app being opt-in, what data you’ll turn over to Facebook, what compensation you’ll receive, and how you can opt out of the app.