Facebook Launches New Messenger Desktop App for Windows 10, macOS

Now, more than ever, staying in touch with friends and family (and work colleagues) is important as the reality of self-isolation takes hold. With that in mind, Facebook decided to expand the ways in which you can access Messenger by bringing it to the Windows 10 and macOS desktops.

Stan Chudnovsky, VP of Messenger, has announced that Facebook Messenger is now available as brand new standalone desktop apps for Windows 10 and macOS users. It means Messenger can be used without having to rely on a web browser, mobile devices, or the old app designed for Windows 8. Facebook designed this new version for big screens, so you can relax in front of a laptop or focus on your friends and family using a much larger monitor.

The new desktop app offers the same features as the web and mobile versions including dark mode and access to GIFs, but adds a notifications feature which makes finding new messages much quicker if you're having multiple chats. All three versions of Messenger interact seamlessly, so you can switch between a PC, laptop, phone, or tablet without missing a message or call.

Facebook is keen to point out the desktop app offers free and unlimited group video calls while not requiring you know someone's phone number or email address to contact them. If you are friends with them on Facebook, Messenger chats and video calls will just work.

The desktop Messenger app is available via the Microsoft Store and the Mac App Store rather than being offered as a direct download. Hopefully that changes in future as not everyone will want to go through those stores to access the software.

:story: PC Magazine