Meta to end Desktop Messenger and website In April

Meta confirmed that its dedicated desktop app for Messenger and the website will be discontinued in April 2026. 

Messenger desktop retiring

Time to make the transition

The company described the decision as the next step in its ongoing transition away from separate desktop-based messaging tools.

According to an announcement from Meta, users who attempt to access messaging services through Messenger.com on desktop computers after the shutdown date will be automatically redirected to Facebook.com/messages. 

Alternatively, they may continue using the Messenger mobile application available for iOS and Android devices.

The standalone Messenger desktop app for macOS and Windows was previously removed from official distribution channels in December 2025. At that time, Meta began encouraging users to transition to web-based messaging options. The latest update extends that transition to the dedicated Messenger web interface.

Meta's notification

The shift reflects the company’s broader strategy to prioritize browser-based and mobile messaging platforms over maintaining separate native desktop clients. Meta has indicated that the consolidation is intended to streamline its communication ecosystem and focus resources on platforms that can be updated and integrated more efficiently.

To assist with the transition, Meta recommends that users enable certain security features—such as secure storage and PIN protection—within their Messenger settings. 

These measures are designed to help ensure that encrypted chat history remains accessible across different devices after the desktop and standalone web services are phased out. 

Furthermore, the company also noted that this guidance is particularly relevant for individuals who access Messenger without a linked Facebook account, as they will still be able to use the service on mobile devices.

Industry observers have characterized the move as consistent with a broader industry trend away from dedicated native applications toward centralized web and mobile platforms.

What do you guys think?

Source: Meta