Facebook gives automatic Photo Syncing on iOS a trial run

The social network begins quietly testing a feature on a small group of users that automatically uploads snapped images from an iOS device to a private folder on the users' profile.

by Dara Kerr

November 19, 2012 7:51 PM PST Follow @darakerr

Facebook may bring Photo Syncing to iOS.

(Credit: Facebook)

Some iOS Facebook mobile users may have noticed something different today -- the ability to automatically sync their photos from their iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad to the social network. According to TechCrunch, Facebook's Photo Syncing is currently being tested on iOS.

The feature, which automatically uploads images that users snap with their devices, is being given a trial run for a small number of users. These users should be able to take a photo and Facebook's Photo Syncing feature will automatically send the image to a private folder in the user's account. Those photos can then be removed, kept private, or shared publicly.

Photo Syncing isn't quite a secret. Facebook currently has a page on its Web site that describes the feature in detail and how it works. To get it up and running, according to Facebook, users must have the latest version of the social network's app and click the "Sync" option at the bottom of the Photos menu. A total of 2GB worth of photos can be stored from mobile devices.

Facebook also began quietly testing the feature for Android devices in September.

It's not clear how many iOS users have been able to use Facebook's Photo Syncing, but according to TechCrunch it's most likely a small group.

CNET contacted Facebook for comment. We'll update the story when we get more information.