Facebook developers can now communicate with users directly through their email, replacing the current notification system. Facebook says it will extensively promote the feature on every application page user visit. This allows users to share their actual email address or a substitute if they want to be anonymous. Facebook says they are concerned about the depreciation of notifications. The new counter system is already in beta mode and can be tested by developers. While the shift to the new system may negatively impact some applications, Facebook’s timeframe should enable most application developers to make a smooth transition. Source: http://www.techcrunch.com/2010/01/20/facebook-app-email/