Streamlined Communication

Meta will discontinue the standalone Facebook Messenger desktop app for Windows and Mac, effective 15 December. Users will need to transition to the browser version, which has led to frustration among those who preferred the app for its focused messaging experience. Meta referred to the app as 'deprecated' but provided little explanation for its removal. Industry analysts suggest the decision is part of a cost-saving initiative, while UK users feel it diminishes their choices. Meta has urged users to back up their encrypted chat history, noting that conversations may not transfer automatically to the browser version. The decision comes as Facebook faces declining relevance in the UK, amid regulatory challenges and public skepticism. Earlier this year, Meta introduced a paid subscription model for Facebook and Instagram in Britain, allowing users to opt out of personalized advertising. Reports indicate that over 700 employees have been laid off in the UK, intensifying perceptions of the company retreating from the market. Concerns have also emerged regarding Meta's use of user data and AI, with reports revealing that posts could be used to train AI systems without explicit consent. The discontinuation of the Messenger app symbolizes a loss of user control and has prompted some users to reconsider their engagement with the platform.