Meta has announced that it will shut down its Messenger desktop apps for Mac and Windows. This means that starting December 15, users will no longer be able to use Messenger through the desktop applications. Instead, users will have to access Messenger through Facebook.com or Messenger.com on their browsers.
This change affects anyone who chats through the desktop app. Once the shutdown process starts, users will get an in-app message explaining that the apps are being removed. Meta has given everyone a 60-day window to continue using Messenger before it stops working. The mobile version of Messenger for Android and iPhone will continue to work as usual.
Why is Meta shutting down Messenger on desktop?
Meta has not given a detailed reason for this decision, but it seems to be part of the company’s effort to simplify its platforms. Instead of maintaining multiple versions of Messenger for different devices, Meta appears to be moving everything to the web. This allows them to focus more on improving performance and security through one single web-based version.
It is also possible that fewer people were using the desktop apps compared to the mobile app and web version. Many users prefer chatting on their phones or through a browser, making the desktop app less popular over time.
What will happen after December 15?
After December 15, anyone who tries to open the Messenger desktop app will be redirected to Facebook.com if they have a Facebook account. For users who use Messenger without a Facebook account, they will be redirected to Messenger.com. At that point, the desktop apps will stop working completely.
The Messenger desktop apps have already been removed from the Mac App Store and Microsoft Store, meaning new users can no longer download them.
How to save your chat history before Messenger is gone
Meta has advised users to activate secure storage before the app stops working. This helps to save your chat history so you do not lose your old conversations.
To turn on secure storage, open Messenger, go to your profile settings, and click on Privacy & Safety. Then, under End-to-end encrypted chats, tap Message storage and make sure Turn on secure storage is selected. You can also set up a PIN for extra protection.
If you do not turn on secure storage before December 15, you could lose your chat history permanently. Once the desktop app is gone, your messages will no longer be available there.
What options do users have now?
After the shutdown, there are still easy ways to use Messenger on your computer.
- Messenger.com: This is the easiest option for users who prefer to chat without logging into Facebook. You can still send messages, react to chats, and make calls directly from your browser.
- Facebook.com: If you have a Facebook account, you can use Messenger directly on the site. It works just like the app and even allows you to continue your chats without installing anything.
- Mobile App: The Messenger app for iOS and Android will continue to work normally. You can still send texts, make video calls, and share photos or videos as before.
Why this change matters
The desktop apps were helpful for people who liked chatting while working on their computers. It offered easy access to messages without having to open a browser. However, by removing the desktop apps, Meta is streamlining its services and focusing more on the web and mobile experience.
For some users, this might be disappointing, especially for those who used the desktop version daily. On the other hand, using Messenger on the web offers similar features and will still be accessible from any device.
What Meta might do next
Meta has been making many changes recently across its platforms. It replaced the original Messenger app with a Progressive Web App in 2024, which did not perform very well. Now, by fully removing the standalone desktop versions, Meta might be planning to build a more unified experience that works better across all devices.
The company has also been focusing heavily on integrating AI tools and improving its messaging platforms. This shutdown could be a step towards simplifying its development process and maintaining fewer apps at once.
What users should do now
If you are using the Messenger desktop app, it is best to start moving your chats to the web version as soon as possible. Save your chat history using secure storage and get familiar with Messenger.com or Facebook.com for chatting.
You can also bookmark the site in your browser for quick access. This way, you will not lose touch with your friends and family once the desktop app disappears.
The Bottom Line
The closing of Messenger desktop apps marks another big shift for Meta. It shows how the company is prioritizing efficiency and user experience over maintaining old tools. Although some users might miss the convenience of a desktop app, Messenger is not going away completely. You can still use it easily through your browser or phone.
If you act now and back up your messages, you will have nothing to worry about once December 15 arrives. Meta’s focus is now clearly on the web and mobile experience, so switching early will make the change smoother for you.
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