Firefox
Drop-in replacementFreeMessenger in the browser is now the official way on any computer. Chrome and Edge work too and can pin it as its own window.
Does Facebook Messenger run on Linux?
Verdict: Yes
Yes. Meta has withdrawn the Messenger desktop app for Windows and Mac entirely, and now points computer users to a browser instead, which works the same on Linux.
This one stopped being a Linux question. Meta's own help page states that the Messenger desktop app for Mac and Windows is no longer available, and tells people to use a web browser on a computer instead. So the Windows app you are leaving behind has already gone for everyone.
Visiting facebook.com/messages in Chrome, Firefox or any other browser on Linux gives you your full conversation history, photos, voice notes, group chats, and video and voice calling. Sign in with the same account and nothing is missing.
Two habits need adjusting. Notifications only arrive while the tab is open, so leave it open and allow browser notifications if you want to be told about messages. And there is no taskbar icon unless you make one: Chrome and Edge can turn the page into a shortcut that opens in its own window, which is close to how the old app felt.
Nothing needs migrating. Your messages live with your Meta account, not on the computer, so they simply appear when you sign in.
What to use instead of Facebook Messenger
Signal
Different way of workingFreeWorth knowing if you want a proper installed chat app on Linux. Signal makes one, though your contacts have to be there too.
Your files: No message import from Messenger. You start fresh.
Telegram
Different way of workingFreeAnother installed Linux chat app with good desktop support, again only useful if the people you talk to will move.
Your files: No Messenger import.
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