Overview: Meta shutters Messenger desktop apps
Meta has announced the gradual shutdown of its standalone Messenger apps for macOS and Windows, with full deprecation confirmed for December 15, 2025. After that date, users will no longer be able to log into the desktop apps and will be redirected to Facebook.com or Messenger.com to continue messaging. The move aligns with Meta’s broader strategy of consolidating services and emphasizing web-based experiences.
Timeline and what changes at launch
According to updated information from Meta’s Help Center and multiple statements given to the media, the deprecation will unfold in two stages. First, an in-app notification will appear in Messenger desktop apps, informing users of the upcoming change. Then, a 60-day grace period will begin during which the apps will still work, albeit with limited functionality and eventual permanent lockout after the grace period ends. The December 15 deadline marks the point at which users must migrate to web access to continue messaging without interruption.
Why is Meta moving users to web?
Meta’s strategy over the past years has shifted toward consolidating experiences across platforms and prioritizing browser-based access. While Messenger remains popular on mobile devices, desktop usage has declined as Meta centralizes services like Facebook, Messenger, WhatsApp, and Instagram Direct under more unified access points. The company has also leaned into Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) and web-first experiences, which reduces the maintenance burden of separate native desktop applications.
Impact on Mac and Windows users
For macOS, the native Messenger app is being discontinued, after a period in which Meta migrated the Mac experience to a Progressive Web App. Windows users will lose the standalone app as well, though the Facebook desktop app remains available. It is important to note that, even after the shutdown, Messenger access remains possible through Messenger.com, and users who log in via Facebook see a seamless transition to web-based messaging.
How to prepare: preserving chat history and security
Meta recommends users enable Secure Storage to preserve chat histories as the shutdown nears. Secure Storage protects end-to-end encrypted conversations and must be activated manually in the app settings: Settings > Privacy & Safety > End-to-End Encrypted Chats > Message Storage. Users will also be prompted to create a PIN to safeguard their chat histories when migrating to web platforms. These steps help ensure conversations remain accessible after the desktop apps are deprecated.
Accounts and login considerations
Users without a Facebook account can still log in to Messenger via Messenger.com, ensuring support for standalone messaging accounts. Those who use Messenger in conjunction with a Facebook profile should anticipate a familiar web-based experience. The shift places fewer barriers to access, but it also requires adapting to a browser-based workflow rather than a dedicated desktop client.
What this means for daily use
For many, the change will be a transition rather than a complete disruption. Web access generally provides the same core messaging features, with the added benefits of cross-device syncing and easier updates. Those who valued native desktop features—such as a dedicated notification system, offline access, or optimized performance—may notice differences in response times or reliability, particularly if their hardware is older or has limited resources. Meta’s stance is clear: prioritize a unified, web-centered experience to streamline maintenance and future upgrades.
Bottom line: preparing for the December deadline
As December 15, 2025 approaches, users should back up their conversations, enable Secure Storage, and practice logging into Messenger via Messenger.com or Facebook.com. While the mobile Messenger apps for iOS and Android remain unaffected, the desktop experience is evolving toward a web-first approach. If you rely heavily on desktop messaging, consider testing the web experience now to identify any workflow adjustments and ensure a smooth transition when the desktop apps are retired.
