Facebook Messenger gets new sharing options, McDonald's updates Happy Studio app for kids

iOS users who keep in touch with friends and relatives using Facebook Messenger now have easier ways to share photos and videos with each other, while McDonald's added a slew of new entertainment options to its Happy Studio app for children.

Facebook Messenger

Facebook's standalone Messenger application has received a host of improvements, including new multimedia sharing features. Users can now send a video directly from their camera roll, for instance, and received videos can be played within the app.

The company has also introduced a new one-tap photo sharing feature, allowing users to send photos without leaving their current conversation. In a nod to those who love stickers, a press-and-hold on any sticker will allow users to download the full pack.

Facebook says search has been improved as well and promises "other fixes," which presumably includes bug fixed and performance enhancements.

Facebook Messenger version 5.0 is available now as a free, 36.8-megabyte download from the App Store.

McDonald's Happy Studio

McDonald's Happy Studio is an app that allows parents and children to play together, using graphics found at McDonald's restaurants and in Happy Meals to activate different modes. Some glyphs open coloring book functions, for instance, while others bring up puzzles.

The more recent update added new games like Happy Conga, Mix and Match, and Happy Stars. The company also added a new Happy Pets feature, which allows children to adopt and look after a virtual pet.

McDonald's Happy Studio version 3.11.0 is available now as a free, 20.5-megabyte download from the App Store.