New Facebook Messenger app for Windows 11 is faster and better-looking than ever

(Image credit: Facebook)

There is a new beta version of the Facebook Messenger app for Windows 10 and Windows 11. This is a significant update to the popular desktop app that sees Facebook using the open-source React Native framework.

The rewrite of the app and the move away from the previously used Electron means that there is a significant performance boost. On top of this, there are also bug fixes and improvements, as well as important interface changes.

The update takes the Messenger app up to version 1320.11.119.0, and there is something of a new look. The app has switched from using its own custom controls, to using the native UWP (Universal Windows Platform) versions instead.

The need for speed

But what is perhaps most noticeable about the app in use is the performance increase. Facebook has not only been able to reduce the size of Messenger by an incredible 100MB, but there is a speed boost that comes thanks to the code re-write.

Switching to React Native has helped to dramatically improve the app's use of system resources, and this in turn has helped to accelerate performance.

If you're already signed up to take part in the beta program, you will need to update to the latest version to experience the improvements. You can find out more about the Messenger beta over in the Microsoft Store.

Analysis: performance and prettiness

With this update, Facebook is giving people precisely what they want. No one is going to complain about an improvement in performance, a reduction in resource usage, and a smaller app, after all.

While there is something to be said for apps that have a unique look, users tend to feel more comfortable with familiarity. This means that custom controls and unusual app furniture serve as friction point.

In adopting native UWP controls, Messenger is now much more like other apps and is therefore easier to use. While a messaging app is perhaps not the most complex or confusing type of app available, it's important to remember that developers need to cater for the lowest common denominator. By eliminating custom controls, the potential for confusion has been reduced, and this is a win for all users.

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Via: MSPoweruser

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Sofia is a tech journalist who's been writing about software, hardware and the web for nearly 25 years – but still looks as youthful as ever! After years writing for magazines, her life moved online and remains fueled by technology, music and nature.

Having written for websites and magazines since 2000, producing a wide range of reviews, guides, tutorials, brochures, newsletters and more, she continues to write for diverse audiences, from computing newbies to advanced users and business clients. Always willing to try something new, she loves sharing new discoveries with others.

Sofia lives and breathes Windows, Android, iOS, macOS and just about anything with a power button, but her particular areas of interest include security, tweaking and privacy. Her other loves include walking, music, her two Malamutes and, of course, her wife and daughter.

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