Facebook Messenger for Apple Watch will stop working after May ends after Meta confirms shutting down the app.
Some Apple Watch users report receiving a notification alerting them that Messenger will be unavailable soon.
Facebook Messenger Apple Watch App to Shut Down
One of the new Apple Watch 8 series is displayed during a launch event for new products at Apple Park in Cupertino, California, on September 7, 2022. - Apple unveiled several new products including a new iPhone 14 and 14 Pro, three Apple watches, and new AirPod Pros during the event.
Apple Watch users might soon have to say goodbye to the Messenger app on their smart wearable, which allows them to respond to messages straight from their wrists without opening their phones.
According to Engadget, the Facebook parent has confirmed the impending shutdown of its Messenger app for the Apple Watch, joining other platforms in neglecting the smartwatch market.
Meta is telling Facebook Messenger users on Apple Watch that it will no longer be accessible after May 31. So starting in June, they must grab their phone or other devices to respond to messages.
9to5 Mac notes that some users have started receiving a notification detailing the demise of the Apple Watch app. It reads: "After May 31, Messenger won't be available as an Apple Watch App."
However, the notice assures users they can continue receiving Messenger notifications from their smart wearable. A Meta spokesperson reiterates that users may still get Messenger notifications if their Apple Watch is paired with their iPhone.
On the other hand, they may no longer respond to messages using their wristwatch. Meta encourages users to use alternative platforms like the iPhone and desktop apps. They may also access the messaging service using web browsers like Safari, Google Chrome, or Microsoft Edge.
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Messenger App for Apple Watch
A picture taken on October 1, 2019 in Lille shows the logo of mobile app Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter, Facebook, Google and Messenger are displayed on a tablet.
According to Gizmodo, Facebook debuted the Messenger app for Apple Watch users in 2015, which paved the way for letting them respond to messages straight from their wrists. While it prevents them from replying in text, it allows them to answer using audio clips and stickers.
As time passes, more platforms have started leaving the Apple Watch ecosystem, including Twitter, which Elon Musk now owns, and another Meta-owned service, Instagram. Platforms like Uber and Slack have gone as well.
And this time, Messenger is leaving the Apple Watch too. Meta did not provide any explanation for the move. However, Engadget highlights in the same report that the app's limitations might have affected its popularity or the lack thereof.
On top of that, the tech news outlet pointed out that Meta plans to lay off around 10,000 of its workforce to save some money. The cost-cutting measure might have affected the Messenger app for Apple Watch users.
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