Facebook Bulletin: Facebook's Newsletter Platform is Live

Facebook's New Venture: Introducing Bulletin

A recent trend initiated by Mark Zuckerberg involves revealing new product developments within live audio environments. Today, Zuckerberg utilized Facebook’s audio platform, a direct competitor to Clubhouse, to unveil its latest innovation: Bulletin, a dedicated newsletter platform.

Platform Independence and Integration

Bulletin operates on a distinct platform separate from Facebook itself. The platform’s FAQ clarifies this separation is intended to empower creators to expand their readership beyond the confines of the Facebook ecosystem.

While a Facebook account isn't required for newsletter subscriptions, Bulletin leverages Facebook’s existing infrastructure. This includes utilizing Facebook Pay for premium subscription purchases and access to exclusive subscriber groups and live audio sessions.

Content Moderation and Comparison to Substack

Unlike competitors such as Substack, which adopts a largely unmoderated approach to content, Bulletin features a curated selection of writers. Every author currently featured on Bulletin has been specifically invited to contribute.

However, Substack has faced criticism regarding its support of potentially harmful content through its Substack Pro program. Despite Bulletin’s curated approach, it may still encounter similar challenges.

Initial Writers and Future Plans

The initial group of writers participating in Bulletin includes prominent figures like Malcolm Gladwell, Mitch Albom, Erin Andrews, and Tan France. The beta program is currently focused on the United States, with limited international representation.

Facebook is providing upfront payments to its contributing writers and currently has no plans to take a percentage of their earnings. Writers will also retain the ability to export their subscriber lists should they decide to leave the platform.

Bulletin states that expansion to include more international creators will be considered following the initial beta program launch.