Facebook app for Windows 10 to shut down this month

Facebook app Windows 10
Facebook app Windows 10 (Image credit: Windows Central)

What you need to know

  • Facebook's Windows 10 app will stop working on February 28, 2020.
  • Facebook directs people to use a browser to check Facebook from their PC.
  • Facebook's Messenger app is still in the Microsoft Store.

Facebook's Windows 10 app will stop working before the end of this month, according to a new report. MSPowerUser shared an email from a Facebook user who received a notification about the impending shutdown. According to the email from the Facebook team, the app will stop working on February 28, 2020. Facebook directs people to use their browser to check Facebook from their PCs.

Facebook's record when it comes to releasing and maintaining apps on Windows 10 has been hit and miss throughout the years. The company's apps often go months without an update and fall behind their counterparts on iOS and Android. That situation improved when Facebook converted its Messenger app to an Electron app, and switched the Instagram app to a PWA, but the Facebook app doesn't seem like it will receive similar treatment.

Here's the complete text that Marius sent to MSPowerUser:

Since you use Facebook for Windows desktop app, we wanted to make sure you're aware this app will stop working on Friday, February 28, 2020. You can still access all of your friends and favorite Facebook features by logging in through your browser at www.facebook.com.For the best experience, make sure you're using the most current version of our supported browsers including the new Microsoft Edge.You can still access Messenger through the Facebook website or by logging in through your browser at www.messenger.com. If you prefer a desktop app for your conversations, try the new Messenger for Windows which you can download now in the Microsoft Store.Thank you for using Facebook for Windows desktop app, The Facebook Team

The email states that Facebook's Messenger app is sticking around and that people can chat through messenger.com. Facebook specifically mentions that its Messenger app is available through the Microsoft Store.

What do you think about Facebook shutting down its desktop app for Windows 10? If you browse Facebook on your PC, do you use the app or your web browser? Let us know in the comments below.

Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.