Meta has announced that it will discontinue its standalone Messenger apps for Mac and Windows, marking the end of desktop access through dedicated software. The company confirmed the decision through its Facebook Help Center, stating that users should expect in-app notifications before the shutdown process begins.
Once the notification appears, users will have 60 days to continue using the app before it stops working entirely. Meta has advised users to activate secure storage and set a PIN to save chat history before the deadline.
Transitioning Users to Web Platforms
After the deprecation period, Messenger users on desktop will be automatically redirected to the web version of the platform. Those with Facebook accounts will move to Facebook.com, while Messenger-only users will be redirected to Messenger.com.
Meta has already removed the Messenger app from the Mac App Store, meaning no new downloads are possible. However, mobile versions for iOS and Android will continue to function normally.
Why Meta Is Making the Change
The decision doesn’t come as a surprise. Meta previously replaced its original desktop app with a Progressive Web App (PWA) in September 2024, but the update quickly drew criticism for being unreliable and underdeveloped. Ending the desktop versions may allow Meta to focus on improving its web and mobile experiences, which host the majority of its users.
While the company has not provided a specific shutdown date, the move reflects a broader industry trend toward cloud-based and browser-native communication tools. This shift reduces maintenance costs and improves accessibility across devices.
What Users Should Do Next
Users who rely on Messenger’s desktop apps should begin transitioning to the web versions now. By enabling secure storage and backing up conversations, they can avoid losing important data once Meta fully removes desktop support.
