Facebook introduces a new way for people to trade skills directly. This system is called the Skill Exchange Time Bank. It lets Facebook users swap their time and knowledge with others in their local community. People do not use money. They earn and spend time credits instead.
(Facebook launches skill exchange time bank system)
Someone helps another person for one hour. Then they get one time credit. That person can use that credit later. They can get one hour of help from someone else. The system tracks these credits automatically. Facebook built it into Groups and the main app.
The company says this helps communities connect. People share what they know. They get things done together. Facebook also believes it builds stronger local ties. Neighbors help neighbors. Useful skills get shared more widely.
For example, someone might teach basic Spanish lessons. They earn time credits. Later, they use those credits. They get help planting a vegetable garden. Another person might fix a bike. They earn credits. Then they use credits for guitar lessons. Many different skills can be traded.
Facebook started testing this in some cities last year. People used it for tutoring, home repairs, and tech help. The feedback was positive. Users liked helping others. They liked getting practical help too. Now, Facebook launches it globally. It is available to all users starting next week.
(Facebook launches skill exchange time bank system)
People join through local Facebook Groups or the main app. They list skills they offer. They list skills they need. The system matches people based on location and interests. Safety features are included. Users can rate exchanges. They can report problems. Facebook moderators will watch activity. The goal is a safe and useful tool for communities. It is active now in all supported languages and regions.