• September 5, 2008

About 60% of Facebook users have converted to the new version of the site since it was unveiled in mid-July, according to an analysis by Becky Bitzenhofer of Web measurement firm Compete. About 40% of Facebook members have checked out the upgraded site but decided to go back to the old one.

"Having 60% of users continue on to use the new site is good news for Facebook, as it indicates users are beginning to come around to the new style," wrote Bitzenhofer in a post on the Compete blog." It is clear that Facebook has learned and grown from its last major new release."

She noted that Facebook had "shocked and scared off" some members when it suddenly launched its "mini feed" feature in September 2006. This time around, the company is letting users get accustomed to the redesigned site at their own pace, allowing them to offer feedback as well.--Mark Walsh