Meta is discontinuing the dedicated desktop versions of its Messenger app for both Windows and macOS. The company confirmed the applications will be retired on December 15, 2025.
After that date, anyone trying to open the standalone Messenger app on their computer will find it inaccessible. The software will redirect users to the Facebook website to continue their chats instead.
People currently using the apps will receive an alert about the shutdown directly within the program. Those on Macs will have a short transition period; the app will continue to work for 60 days after the December 15 deadline before it stops functioning completely. Meta’s official advice is for users to uninstall the app once it is no longer usable.
To prepare for the change, Meta is suggesting alternative methods for messaging from a PC. Windows users have the option to use the broader Facebook desktop application. Everyone can also access their messages through a web browser by visiting the Facebook site.
The company is also reminding users to back up their message histories. Meta recommends enabling “secure storage” and creating a PIN. Doing this before the switch ensures that all past conversations will be visible and transfer to the web version. Users can verify their settings by going to the Messenger privacy settings and navigating to the options for encrypted chats.