Facebook has announced the release of a native Messenger app for both Windows and macOS.
While users could access Messenger via their web browser, the new apps will allow users to benefit from a desktop environment, including larger screens and multitasking. As an added benefit, messages sync across mobile and desktop devices.
“Now more than ever, people are using technology to stay in touch with the people they care about, even when physically apart,” writes Stan Chudnovsky, VP of Messenger. “Over the past month, we saw more than a 100% increase in people using their desktop browser for audio and video calling on Messenger. Now with apps for MacOS and Windows, the best of Messenger is coming to desktop, including unlimited and free group video calls.”
Facebook hopes the new apps will make it easier for people to stay in touch at a time when social media and digital connections are more important than ever.