Facebook is about to change its methods for verifying applications built for the social network, and the move has angered some developers. While the system is optional, and Facebook claims it will bring plenty of positive benefits, there are a body of developers opposed to it.

Platform Program Manager Sandra Liu Huang said the process increases users' trust of applications that are posted on the site and will help developers wanting to build a serious business get more visibility with users. Developers file a form to register their application, and after it is reviewed by Facebook, the developers fill out paperwork and submit a $375 annual fee for each application.

The fee covers costs on Facebook's end related to reviewing the applications, and it will recur each year along with a fresh application review. Verified applications will get a badge and be given more visibility on Facebook. Mike Knoop, 19, who developed an application that lets Facebook users request phone numbers from their friends, told AP that while he was is not opposed to paying a fee to participate, but doesn't like the idea of paying each year.

He said that it will shut out a lot of the smaller developers that don't have the initial capital to invest in Facebook applications.