Facebook Messenger's desktop app for Windows and Mac has been discontinued as of 2025-12-15. Users are now directed to the Facebook website to access messaging services. The end of the native app reflects shifts in Meta's technology and strategic direction.

Technology Transition

Over time, the technical foundation of Messenger's desktop apps evolved significantly. The Mac version transitioned from an Electron app to one built with Catalyst, and eventually to a React Native Desktop app. On Windows, Messenger converted to a progressive web app last year, indicating a focus on web-based solutions.

User Guidance and Next Steps

Meta announced the deprecation earlier, urging users to set up a PIN to retain their chat history before switching to the web version. Users without a Facebook account can log in on Messenger.com. More details are available on Facebook’s help center.

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16 Dec 2025

Facebook Messenger Ends Desktop App Support for Mac, Windows

Meta has retired Facebook Messenger's desktop app for Mac and Windows as of 2025-12-15. Users are directed to Messenger.com or the Facebook site.

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15 Dec 2025

Messenger Desktop App Ends on 2025-12-15

Facebook Messenger ends its desktop app on Mac and Windows as of 2025-12-15. Users are redirected to the Facebook website for continued service.

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15 Dec 2025

Meta Shutters Messenger App on Windows and Mac

Meta will shut down the Messenger app for Windows and Mac by December 15, directing users to the Facebook app or website to access chat features.

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02 Dec 2025

Meta to End Desktop Messenger App on 2023-12-15

Meta will shut down the Messenger desktop app for Windows and macOS on 2023-12-15, pushing users to the Facebook platform.

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02 Nov 2025

Meta Discontinues Facebook Messenger for Desktop

Meta will end Facebook Messenger app support on Windows and Mac by 2025-12-15, pushing users to web and mobile access.

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21 Oct 2025

Meta Deprecates Native Facebook Messenger Desktop Apps

Meta replaces native Facebook Messenger apps with a PWA for Windows and macOS, suggesting a unified platform experience.

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19 Oct 2025

Meta Shuts Down Messenger Desktop Apps by 2025-12-15

Meta retires Messenger apps for Windows and Mac by 2025-12-15, shifting users to web platforms.

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18 Oct 2025

Meta to Shut Down Messenger App on Desktops

Meta will end desktop Messenger on 2023-12-15. Mobile and web versions remain.

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04 Aug 2024

Facebook Messenger Introduces New Options to Hide Active Status

Tech giant Facebook has updated its Messenger app, allowing users to hide their active status. Mobile users can toggle off "Show when you're active" in settings, while desktop users can uncheck "Active Status" in preferences. This change means users won't see others' active statuses either.

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