Facebook button lets users request relationship status

Facebook has launched a feature that enables users to personally request unpublished information like relationship status.

The feature, called Ask, makes it possible for Facebook users to request certain information about friends that is not public on the site, including details like home town and job, but also relationship status — adding an increased dating aspect to the social network.

The feature cannot be turned off, and applies to every aspect of a friend’s profile that is not already public. A new Ask button appears next to any sections that haven’t been filled in. Clicking the button sends a request.