Meta has officially announced the discontinuation of the Facebook Messenger desktop application for both Mac and Windows, effective December 15, 2025. Users currently utilizing the app are now being redirected to the Facebook website or Messenger.com to maintain their messaging experience.
Initially launched at the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Messenger desktop app faced challenges in establishing itself against business-centric competitors like Zoom. It fell short in offering essential features such as large-scale video conferencing, screen sharing capabilities, and user-friendly URL sharing, which ultimately diminished its appeal.
Strategic Shift and Technical Challenges
The decision to phase out the desktop app was not unexpected. In 2023, Meta began the process of reintegrating Messenger into the primary Facebook application, indicating a strategic move towards unifying its messaging functionalities.
The Mac version of Messenger was developed using Catalyst, a framework designed to enable iPad applications to operate on macOS. While this approach streamlined certain aspects of development, it faced criticism from both developers and users. Developers noted the additional workload required to adapt the app, while users expressed dissatisfaction with its lack of a native macOS experience. Prior to the Catalyst framework, the Mac app had evolved from an Electron application to a React Native Desktop version. Meanwhile, the Windows version transitioned to a progressive web app last year.
These technical transitions, combined with Meta’s consolidation strategy, likely led to a decrease in demand for a dedicated desktop client. The company’s emphasis on web-based messaging also aligns with its broader initiative to rejuvenate engagement on its core social networking platform.
As the shutdown date approaches, Meta has recommended that users establish a PIN to safeguard their chat history. Those without Facebook accounts can conveniently log in to Messenger.com directly, allowing them to access their messages without the necessity of creating a Facebook profile.
For further assistance, Meta has made available comprehensive transition guidance on its help center, providing tailored instructions for both Mac and Windows users.
