Meta Discontinues Windows 11 Messenger App in Favor of Web Application

Meta has announced the impending discontinuation of the Messenger desktop application for Windows 11 and macOS, just five years after its initial rollout in 2020. The app will cease to function on December 14, 2025, giving users less than two months to take necessary steps to safeguard their chat histories.

As a frequent user of Messenger via my web browser, I noticed that the desktop application was not available on the Microsoft Store. My attempts to locate it there proved futile, as the download option was inaccessible. Instead, I discovered a link that redirected to the store’s webpage but was unable to download the app due to a grayed-out button.

missing download option messenger website

Fortunately, I had previously downloaded Messenger’s offline installer for Windows 11, enabling me to restore the app effectively. However, upon installation, I was prompted with a notification from Meta announcing the app’s impending closure.

The notification clearly stated, “Messenger desktop app is going away.” It provided users with crucial information, including the final availability date and instructions for preserving chat history. Users are encouraged to set up a PIN to maintain access to their conversations and avoid losing any data.

windows messenger app end of life notification

Steps to Back Up Your Messages on Windows 11

While the Messenger desktop applications are being discontinued, the service itself remains operational. Your account and messages will continue to exist, but it is vital to back up your chat history. The recommendation to create a PIN will enable this backup functionality.

To set up a six-digit PIN, simply follow the instructions following the warning notification, which will then disappear. Additionally, users can access the message storage option by clicking on the Profile icon and selecting “Privacy and safety.” Within this section, you will find settings for End-to-End Encryption, where you can configure message storage preferences for your account.

Even after the desktop app becomes unavailable, users will still have the ability to log into their accounts via the website messenger.com to continue their discussions.

Future of WhatsApp on Windows: Another Shift by Meta

Despite shutting down the Messenger desktop app, Meta is not terminating its mobile applications, indicating a continued focus on a mobile-first user base. The shift away from the desktop version of Messenger aligns with the trend indicating that a standalone desktop application may no longer be necessary.

For users seeking a similar experience, Messenger is accessible through web platforms or via the Facebook desktop application, provided it is linked to your Facebook account.

If you prefer maintaining a standalone Messenger account, you can keep using the Messenger website for your communications.

Moreover, Messenger is not the sole app shifting toward web-based functionality. Recent reports from Windows Latest confirmed that Meta is also discontinuing the modern version of WhatsApp for Windows, replacing it with a WebView version that mirrors the web.whatsapp.com layout within a contained environment.

Source&Images