In a significant shift for its desktop offerings, Meta has announced the impending closure of the Facebook Messenger app for both macOS and Windows platforms. This decision, set to take effect on December 15, marks the end of a service that has been available for Windows users for nearly five years.
Facebook Messenger for macOS and Windows is going away
As the Messenger app fades from desktop screens, users will be directed to utilize web browsers to access the service on their Windows devices, including popular models like the Galaxy Book. Meanwhile, the mobile version of Messenger will continue to thrive, ensuring that users can still connect seamlessly through their Galaxy phones and tablets.
Interestingly, while the standalone Messenger app is being retired, the Facebook app itself—though not a native desktop application—will remain functional on Windows, allowing users to access Messenger through this platform. This dual approach highlights Meta’s strategy to streamline its offerings while still catering to user needs.
While the company has not elaborated on the rationale behind this decision, it is plausible that the majority of Messenger’s user base prefers the convenience of mobile access. This trend may have led Meta to reassess the viability of investing resources into the desktop version of the app.
For those who have relied on the Messenger app for important communications, it is advisable to enable secure storage and set a PIN code to safeguard any critical messages before the app’s closure. Users will receive notifications regarding this transition, ensuring they are informed of the changes ahead.
The Messenger app’s journey has been quite dynamic; initially integrated within the Facebook mobile app, it was spun off into a standalone service in 2014. In recent years, Meta explored merging Facebook Messenger with Instagram Direct Messages, a plan that ultimately faced backlash and was shelved. Currently, the company appears to be concentrating its efforts on WhatsApp, which has evolved into a comprehensive communication tool.
