Facebook Messenger version 6.0 has been released for iOS and Android devices, bringing new features to the service, Digital Spy said.

Users now have to option to 'Like' posts more emphatically by holding down the button to register a 'Big Like'. The update also brings the service in line with competitors such as Line and Viber by allowing users to record 15-second video messages in-app.

Facebook Messenger previously allowed users to send video footage stored on their device, but did not enable them to capture it within the app. The company shut off messaging functionality in its mobile app in April in a bid to encourage users to download the standalone Messenger.

Earlier this year, the social network increased its presence in the instant messaging sector with a big-money acquisition of WhatsApp.