Tech Desk 
Dec 15, 2025
Meta on Monday announced the shutdown of its Facebook Messenger desktop app for Mac and Windows, effective today, December 15, as existing users are being directed to the Facebook website to continue chatting with friends, family, or business partners.
Originally launched at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, Messenger’s desktop app couldn’t manage as many video call participants as business-focused competitors like Zoom.
The shutdown of Messenger app likely affected user demand for a standalone Mac app, while the move of shifting the app back to Facebook suggested Meta was trying to shore up declining usage of its aging flagship social network.
The desktop app provided features like calling, notifications, and desktop alerts that created a more integrated experience compared to browser-based messaging
People who use the Messenger without a Facebook account are being redirected to Messenger.com after the shutdown, where they’ll be able to log in without creating a Facebook account.
More information for users about the transition is available on Facebook’s help centre, with separate sections for Mac users and Windows users.
