Nostalgic 2010s Facebook Poke Feature Gets a Comeback With New Updates

Meta-owned Facebook is bringing back one of its most nostalgic features — Facebook Pokes. Once a viral trend in the early 2010s, Pokes allowed users to virtually nudge, flirt, or annoy their friends. Now, in 2025, Facebook is officially reviving this feature with a modern twist, hoping to spark engagement among both Gen Z users and long-time members.

Facebook has introduced a dedicated Pokes page within its mobile app, making it easier for users to access and track their pokes. The new update lets you see how many times you’ve poked a friend and vice versa, creating opportunities for fun streaks similar to Snapchat. The Poke button has also returned to user profiles, placed right next to the Messages button, but it is limited to friends only — ensuring privacy and security.

Nostalgia Marketing and Social Media Trends
The Poke feature was never given an official explanation, but users in the 2010s popularized it as a quirky way to grab attention. It quickly became a cultural trend, used for flirting, friendly nudges, and playful competition. With nostalgia-driven social media updates becoming a trend, Facebook’s decision to reintroduce Pokes is seen as a move to boost engagement and bring back users who loved the platform’s quirky and experimental side.

Meta’s Strategy for 2025
Meta is actively experimenting with features that revive nostalgic Facebook experiences while blending them with modern design. By reintroducing Pokes, Facebook is appealing to users who remember the platform’s golden days while offering today’s creators new ways to interact. This strategy aligns with Meta’s push for higher engagement, community interaction, and playful social features in a competitive landscape dominated by TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat.