Meta has announced the deprecation of the native Facebook Messenger desktop applications for both Windows and macOS, shifting users to a platform-independent Progressive Web App (PWA). This change targets a streamlined, single-code-base approach.
Transition Details and Timeline
The native Messenger app has been removed from the Mac App Store as Meta prepares for this transition. Existing users will continue to have access to their current apps for 60 days. Afterward, full shutdown of these native apps is expected. In-app notifications will guide users to switch to the PWA and remind them to enable secure storage and set up a PIN to save their chat history.
Advantages and Limitations of PWAs
Progressive Web Apps offer notable benefits such as server-side updates that bypass per-platform approvals and unified code maintenance across devices. However, they often demand more RAM compared to native apps and may deliver reduced performance or feel less integrated with the device’s native UI.
This move suggests a broadening shift in the tech industry from purpose-built desktop applications to web-based alternatives. While Meta highlights efficiency gains, users may experience a decline in software performance and user experience congruence.
