A New Face For Facebook

Facebook said the new design is "cleaner and simpler," and now also allows users to preview and test next-generation features and functionality. Facebook is encouraging members to try out the new features by navigating back and forth between the new and current versions of the site.

Access to the new design will be limited at first and gradually become available to all of Facebook's more than 80 million users over the coming days, the company said.

Facebook took into account feedback and suggestions from more than 100,000 users over the past six months in redesigning the site's layout and features, many of which were included in the final version.

As part of the redesign, there are now tabs to provide easier site navigation.The top menu is similar to the old design and allows users to access their Profile, Friends, and Inbox. The left hand applications menu has been moved to the "Applications" link on the top of the menu screen.

The Profile is now split out into tabs:

The Wall tab displays the most recent and relevant information both about the user and by the user. A big feature of The Wall is the Publisher, which works with most apps, and allows users to publish content, such as photos, notes, and status directly one centralized location.

The Info tab shows information about the user that doesn't change frequently.

The Photos tab shows photos of the user as well as their albums.

The Boxes tab features all of users' existing application boxes.

Users are also able to add individual tabs for their favorite applications

As part of the new applications and design, Facebook said that third-party apps are more tightly integrated into the site so that they are simpler and more seamless. Users have the option of testing an application before adding it, grant it access to their information, and decide where they want it placed, if at all, on their profiles.

"We've made the changes rolling out today in order to highlight the most recent and relevant information that users value, give users even more control and ownership over their profiles and simplify the user experience," said Facebook founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg, in a statement.