Meta shuts down popular app for Mac and Windows: What users need to know
Meta shuts down Messenger for desktop, redirects users to Facebook (photo: Getty Images)
Meta has officially ended support for Facebook Messenger on Mac and Windows computers. The company now directs all users to the web version of the service via Facebook.com or Messenger.com, according to TechCrunch.
The Messenger app for PC and Mac, launched at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, could not compete with business-focused video services like Zoom. It supported fewer participants in video calls, lacked screen sharing, and did not offer convenient links for quick call access.
The decline of desktop Messenger within Meta's ecosystem became noticeable even before the official closure announcement in October. As early as 2023, Facebook began gradually reintegrating Messenger into the main social media app.
FB Messenger for Windows desktop deprecated as of 15 December 2025. pic.twitter.com/Yh1mLqJFUi
— Allen Lorbes (@AllenLorbes) December 15, 2025
Constant tech changes and user criticism
Meta repeatedly changed the technology behind the desktop Messenger client. The Mac version in recent years was built using Apple's Catalyst, which allows iPad apps to run on macOS. This approach drew criticism: developers cited additional costs, and users complained that it did not feel like a fully native app.
On Windows, the app became a progressive web app (PWA) in 2024, which also reduced functionality and appeal. Experts note that these simplifications negatively affected user popularity. At the same time, reintegrating Messenger into Facebook appears to be Meta's strategy to maintain engagement on its main social network.
What users should do
In the fall, Meta warned users about the app's shutdown by the end of the year and recommended setting a PIN in advance to preserve chat history when moving to the web version.
Users without a Facebook account will be redirected to Messenger.com, where they can still log in without a social media account. Detailed transition instructions are available in Facebook's Help Center, separately for Mac and Windows users.
Meta recently launched a major Facebook update, refocusing the platform on friend-to-friend communication.
Earlier, we reported that Meta rolled out a major Facebook update, refocusing the social network on connecting friends.
