Meta has officially retired Facebook Messenger’s desktop app for Mac and Windows as of December 15, 2025. Existing users are now being directed to the Facebook website or Messenger.com to continue using the messaging platform.
Originally launched at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, Messenger’s desktop app struggled to compete with business-focused rivals like Zoom. The app lacked key features such as large-scale video calls, screen sharing, and easy-to-share URLs — factors that contributed to its declining relevance.
The shift away from the desktop app had been anticipated. In 2023, Meta began reintegrating Messenger into the main Facebook app, signaling a long-term strategy to consolidate messaging features.
Messenger’s Mac version was built using Catalyst, a framework that allows iPad apps to run on macOS. While this approach simplified development for some purposes, it drew criticism from both developers and users. Developers cited additional work to adapt the app, while users reported that it lacked a native macOS feel. Before Catalyst, the Mac app had transitioned from an Electron app to a React Native Desktop version. On Windows, Messenger had become a progressive web app last year.
These technical changes, coupled with the consolidation strategy, likely contributed to reduced demand for a standalone desktop client. Meta’s focus on web-based messaging also aligns with efforts to revive usage of its core social network.
Ahead of the shutdown, Meta advised users to set up a PIN to preserve their chat history. Users without Facebook accounts can log in to Messenger.com directly, ensuring continued access to their messages without creating a Facebook profile.
For more information, Meta has provided detailed transition guidance on its help center, with separate instructions for Mac and Windows users.
