Facebook to remove messaging from iOS app, directs users to new Messenger app
Facebook yesterday alerted users of its plans to remove the messaging feature from the company's iOS app. Mobile Facebook messaging functionality will live on, albeit via the company's standalone Messenger app.
An email sent out to users yesterday reads:
We wanted to let you know that messages are moving out of the Facebook app to our Messenger app, a free app that's faster and more reliable for everyday messaging. Messenger also includes: new ways to send photos and videos, voice calls, stickers, group conversations and more.
Soon, we'll start guiding you to get started with Messenger. After a few days, you'll also see a reminder notice in the Facebook app, where you'd normally see your messages. At that point, we'll ask you to install Messenger or go to the Facebook website to view and send messages. You'll still see new message notifications in the Facebook app, and it'll be easy to switch between Facebook and Messenger.
We appreciate your taking the time to install Messenger and know it will take a little while to adjust to using a second app. We look forward to sharing this fast, fun and reliable way of messaging with you. You can learn more here.
Facebook Messenger is already the top free app on the App Store and can be downloaded here.
