Finally, Facebook launches Messenger app on Windows, macOS
More than nine years after launching Messenger, Facebook has made the popular messaging service available as a dedicated app for Windows and macOS users. The move from the social network comes as the world rushes to find reliable audio-video chat platforms to stay in touch with their friends, family while being home-bound due to the ongoing coronavirus crisis. Here's all about the new apps.
100% increase in audio, video calls
Ever since the coronavirus pandemic started wreaking havoc in Italy and other nations, the usage of video calling apps, including Skype and Zoom, has seen a significant spike. Among these, Facebook's Messenger has also been a beneficiary, witnessing more than a 100% increase in the number of people using the browser version of the platform for audio and video calling.
Now, the desktop apps are here to improve your experience
In response to this surge, Facebook is launching the desktop app of Messenger for Windows and macOS. The new app, available through the respective app stores of both the platforms, brings the clean, clutter-free Messenger experience, just like the mobile version, and makes it easier for people to make quick individual and group video calls with their friends and family.
Other Messenger-specific features also available
The desktop app of Messenger works just like the mobile version. Specifically, in addition to video calls, the new app lets you chat using stickers/GIFs, receive notifications about new messages, and mute/snooze conversations if someone is bothering you. All messages/calls are synced across devices using the same Facebook account. Further, there is also a dark mode available for usage in low-light environments.
Messenger for desktop was long overdue
While the desktop app couldn't have come at a better time, there is also no denying that this has been a long-overdue release. Facebook started working on the desktop app of Messenger back in 2016 but it wasn't announced until F8 2019. Also, even after that, the app was not released as a stable build for the public.
