Meta Platforms has ended support for its standalone Messenger desktop app on Windows and macOS, effective 2025-12-15. Users are directed to continue messaging via messenger.com or within the Facebook app.
Transition and Alternatives
The shutdown comes as Meta shifts focus to web-centric and mobile-first strategies, aiming to optimize resources within its ecosystem. Users are advised to transition to web or mobile alternatives. Creation of progressive web apps (PWAs) from messenger.com is suggested to ease the transition. Competing platforms like Signal, Telegram, Microsoft Teams, and Discord also present alternatives.
- Standalone Messenger desktop app ended on 2025-12-15.
- Transition urged to messenger.com or Facebook app.
- PWA suggested for an improved web experience.
- Secure chat features remain available on the web.
- Industry trend towards web and mobile solutions.
Industry Impact
The app, launched in 2020, was favored by professionals for its enhanced features like screen sharing and group calls. However, the shutdown reflects a broader industry movement towards consolidating platforms, emphasizing cost efficiency and aligning with AI and augmented reality goals. While this shift may free up Meta's engineering resources, it has implications for accessibility and consumer choices.
Despite concerns about internet limitations affecting messaging accessibility, Meta ensures core functionalities such as end-to-end encrypted chats remain. The shift could further drive adoption of PWAs and push consumers towards alternative services, impacting traditional desktop messaging habits.
