Meta has announced the shutdown of its standalone Messenger website by April 2026, redirecting users to facebook.com/messages. This move aligns with Meta's strategy to consolidate services under the main Facebook platform.
Web Access Changes
Users who currently access Messenger via the web will be redirected to Facebook, requiring a Facebook login to manage chats online. This change primarily affects those without Facebook accounts who relied on messenger.com. Small businesses, community groups, and individuals will need to adapt to using Facebook's main web interface for messaging.
Mobile Apps Unaffected
The Messenger apps for iOS and Android will continue to operate as usual. Users relying on these mobile platforms will not experience any changes. Meta's decision follows the discontinuation of Messenger desktop apps for Windows and Mac in the previous year.
Integration Strategy
Launched as a standalone app in 2011, Messenger has become one of the most popular messaging platforms globally. Meta's recent moves, including the shutdown of standalone desktop apps, reflect its ongoing strategy to integrate services under Facebook's umbrella.
Users who depend on web access should prepare by ensuring they have Facebook login credentials and consider backing up important conversations. The transition is part of Meta's broader effort to streamline its service offerings.
