If you're using Messenger on macOS and Windows, you should consider switching to another app — and you should probably do it soon!
Meta has decided to shut down its Messenger desktop apps for Mac and Windows. According to two pages on Facebook’s Help Center, the company is planning to retire both apps, although it hasn’t announced exactly when the process will begin. However, it says that users will receive a notification within the app. From that point on, they will have 60 days to use the app before it is completely removed.
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Meta encourages users to enable secure storage before this happens and set a PIN code to save their chat history.
Most users will be automatically redirected to Facebook.com when they attempt to access the app after it is removed. For those using Messenger without a Facebook account, they will be redirected to Messenger.com.
The app has already been removed from the Mac App Store, making it unavailable for new downloads.
Meta's decision comes at a time when messaging and communication apps are in constant evolution. The company seems to be focusing more on mobile platforms and web versions of its services, offering a more unified user experience. The removal of desktop apps can be seen as part of this strategy.
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Meta: Remove desktop Messenger for Mac and Windows – Alternatives
Users who rely on desktop apps for their communication will need to look for alternatives. There are many other apps and services that offer similar features, such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, and others. Additionally, users can continue to use Messenger via the browser, which remains available and offers most of the app's features.
Meta has invested heavily in developing its mobile services, and that seems to be the company's main focus for the future. Users who want to continue using Messenger should consider switching to mobile or using the web version of the service.
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This decision may cause some disruption for users accustomed to using the Desktop apps, but Meta hopes that the transition will be smooth and that users will easily find alternatives that meet their needs. The company is committed to providing support and guidance to users during this transition to ensure that everyone can continue to communicate without problems.
