APP OF THE DAY: Facebook (iPad)

The iPad App Store has had a pretty glaring Facebook-shaped hole in its repertoire since being released in April 2010. After many months of waiting, Zuckerberg and his crew have finally got together a Facebook app that they’re happy with. And it’s yours to download now.

Designed to maximise the extra screen real-estate offered by the iPad, the Facebook for iPad app takes many of its cues from the Twitter iPad app, with sliding tabs for profiles and other menu options.

Other improvements include swipe-friendly photo albums, now taking up the full screen in higher resolutions and working with multi-touch gestures (with gesure controls working with maps too), a drop-down messaging suite and light gaming support.

“Many of you have been asking about Facebook for iPad,” said Facebook engineer Leon Dubinsky.

“Today, it’s finally here. With the iPad app, you get the full Facebook experience, right at your fingertips. It’s a fun, colorful way to keep up with friends, share photos, chat and more.”

“Facebook on the iPad feels fun. Photos really shine on the iPad. They’re bigger and easy to flip through, like a real photo album. It’s like having a slideshow with all your friends and memories, wherever you go.”

Facebook have also made a few improvements to the iPhone app and m.facebook.com mobile-optimised website. Simplified navigation, faster search and access to more games and apps are all included, with opportunities for Facebok app developers to drive wider distribution of their wares and greater engagement with their users too.

Grab the app for free by clicking here, and scroll down for shots from the new-look Facebook.