Facebook Messenger Desktop App Officially Shuts Down Today

The Facebook Messenger desktop app is now gone. Meta shut down the native app for Mac and Windows on December 15, 2025. Users can no longer download it and are being redirected to Facebook’s website.

This move confirms the company’s shift away from standalone desktop software. It marks the end of an app launched during the COVID-19 pandemic for easier video calls.

Technical Shifts and Declining Priority

The app’s decline was evident for some time. According to internal technical details, the Mac app was rebuilt multiple times. It started as an Electron app before moving to React Native and finally to a Catalyst-based app.

Catalyst technology ports iPad apps to Mac. It often results in apps that lack a native feel. Users and developers have both criticized this approach.

On Windows, the app was downgraded to a progressive web app last year. These technical downgrades likely reduced user demand for a separate desktop client.

Meta’s broader strategy also signaled this change. The company began merging Messenger back into the main Facebook app in 2023. This aims to boost engagement on the flagship social network.

User Transition and Available Alternatives

Current users must now access Messenger through a web browser. They can use either the main Facebook website or Messenger.com. Meta warned users about this change in October 2025.

The company advised users to set up a PIN to save their chat history. This step was important before the shutdown occurred. More instructions are available on Facebook’s official help center.

People who use Messenger without a Facebook account are not left out. They can log in directly at Messenger.com after the shutdown. Their accounts will remain fully functional there.

The desktop app lacked features compared to rivals like Zoom. It supported fewer video call participants and had no screen sharing. This made it less competitive for work or group use.

The Facebook Messenger desktop app shutdown concludes a years-long phase-out. Meta is now fully focused on its web and mobile platforms. Users must adapt to accessing their messages through a browser from now on.

Thought you’d like to know

What happens to my old chat messages?

Your chat history is saved if you set up a PIN before the shutdown. You can access all your old messages by logging into Messenger on the web.

Where do I go to use Messenger now?

You must use a web browser. Go to facebook.com or messenger.com. Log in with your Facebook account or your Messenger-only credentials.

Can I still make video calls on desktop?

Yes, video calling remains available. You can start calls through the Messenger service on the Facebook website. The feature set is similar to the old app.

Why did Meta shut down the desktop app?

The company is consolidating its services. Technical challenges and lower usage made the standalone app less viable. Merging services also aims to increase engagement on the main Facebook platform.

I don’t have a Facebook account. Am I affected?

You are affected but can still use Messenger. Simply go to messenger.com after the shutdown. You can log in with your existing Messenger-only account details.