New Facebook Messenger Beta app available through Microsoft Store
Facebook's new Messenger Beta app closes the feature gap between Facebook on Windows 10 and Android and iOS.
What you need to know
- A new version of Facebook Messenger Beta is available through the Microsoft Store.
- The app is powered by Electron and similar to Facebook's Messenger apps on iOS and Android.
- The new Messenger works on x86 and ARM processors.
Facebook's new Messenger app has been in beta for a few weeks for some users. Now, the new version of Messenger (Beta) is rolling out to more people through the Microsoft Store according to a new report. Aggiornamenti Lumia shares on Twitter that the new Messenger is rolling out now.
The new Messenger is powered by Electron, compared to the old OSMeta version of Messenger. As a result, the new Messenger is much closer to feature parity with the iOS and Android versions of Messenger. It has a fresh, clean look, options for dark, light, and system modes, and includes options like attaching files.
The new Messenger is available for devices running both x86 and ARM. We've installed it on both, and it appears to work on both architectures.
Facebook Messenger Desktop (Beta) v290.12.113.0 rolling out through the @MicrosoftStore, change log:
- OSMeta app has gone (Appx from 200MB to 94MB)
- x64 only
- New icon
- Thousands of fixes and improvements https://t.co/841eVODDGXFacebook Messenger Desktop (Beta) v290.12.113.0 rolling out through the @MicrosoftStore, change log:
- OSMeta app has gone (Appx from 200MB to 94MB)
- x64 only
- New icon
- Thousands of fixes and improvements https://t.co/841eVODDGX— Aggiornamenti Lumia (@ALumia_Italia) December 22, 2019December 22, 2019
We reviewed the new Messenger and are impressed. While it isn't perfect, it is a significant step forward from the older version of Messenger. Aggiornamenti Lumia's phrasing of "rolling out" implies that the update might take some time to reach everyone. If you don't see the update, check back in after a while.
Feature parity
Attractive and feature-rich
Messenger (Beta) is the best Facebook Messenger experience on Windows 10. It has a dark mode, support for new features, and a fresh, clean look.
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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_.