Facebook has come under fire recently for their decision to make its standalone Messenger app mandatory for mobile users. Many people have stated they are annoyed with having to use two separate apps and find it unnecessary. There were even some privacy concerns with it. But despite people’s feelings about it, Messenger is here to stay.

But it isn’t all bad news. Messenger does offer some useful features that aren’t found on the regular Facebook app. One of these features is the ability to take and send pictures or video directly through the app. Using the front or rear facing camera, tap the send button to snap a picture, or hold it to take a video. You can also share pictures from the web without leaving Messenger. From the drop down menu, select Image Search, type in terms, choose the image from the result and tap to send it to your friend.

Messenger has a location feature built-in. If you’re trying to meet up with a friend, you can enable location for a message and it will be tagged with where you are. The recipient can press “view map” to view your location. And to make it easier to message big groups, Messenger put group chats in their own tab, so you can find your favorite chats much easier.

And the new Messenger isn’t just for typing. The app gives users the ability to share audio clips. Tapping the microphone button will give a little red button. Record an audio clip and it will send to the recipient immediately. And you can also use Messenger for two-way voice calls.

So even if you aren’t happy about having to download another app, hopefully these new features make the transition a little easier.