Many Facebook users have noticed that the Messenger app on their phones has changed recently and they no longer have access to some of the old features they enjoyed. If you prefer the old version of Messenger and want to get it back, there are a few options you can try.
Why Did Messenger Change?
Facebook is constantly updating their apps and introducing new features. The recent Messenger update brought a redesigned interface and new capabilities like cross-app communication between Messenger and Instagram. However, it also removed or changed some popular features from the old Messenger:
- Removed the Discover tab
- Removed some chat themes/customization options
- Changed some messaging controls and settings
For many longtime Messenger users, these changes felt like steps backwards and made the app more confusing or less useful. Facebook’s priorities as a company have shifted towards privacy and encryption, which has impacted the Messenger user experience.
How to Revert to the Old Messenger Version
If you’re looking to get the old Messenger back after the recent updates, here are a few methods you can try:
1. See if you can undo the update
On Android phones, you may be able to undo the Messenger update by going to the Play Store, tapping the three dot menu in the upper-right, selecting “My Apps & Games,” finding Messenger in the list, and tapping “Uninstall.” This will revert you to the previous version you had installed.
On an iPhone, you can try going to the App Store, tapping your profile icon, selecting “Purchased,” finding Messenger in the list, and tapping “Install” to replace it with the previous iOS version you had.
2. Install an older APK or IPA file
If your device doesn’t give you the option to revert to the previous version, you may be able to install an older Messenger APK (Android) or IPA (iOS) file manually. This allows you to download and install an older version of the app than what’s currently available on the app stores. However, APK/IPA files can only be downloaded from trusted sites, and you’ll need to enable app installs from outside the Play Store/App Store on your device.
3. Use the Lite version
Facebook offers a stripped down “Messenger Lite” app for Android in some countries, which retains the old design and some lost features like themes. It’s a slimmed down version – only 10MB compared to over 100MB for the main Messenger app. While limited, Messenger Lite might provide a familiar experience if you just want core messaging capabilities.
4. Switch to Messenger for web
Messenger in a desktop web browser retains some aspects of the old mobile interface that have changed in the app updates. It may not be as full-featured, but the web version avoids some of the recent redesign elements. You can access it at messenger.com.
5. Use a third party app
There are alternative messaging apps in the app stores that mimic aspects of the old Messenger, like Classic Messenger or Messenger Premium. These aren’t made by Facebook but can connect to your account. Be aware that using third party apps carries some privacy and security risks though.
Getting Your Data Out of Messenger
If you decide the new Messenger just isn’t for you, another option is to move to a different messaging app and take your conversations with you. Here are some ways to export your Messenger data and make your chats accessible in other apps:
Download your Facebook data
Facebook allows you to download an archive of your information that includes your Messenger history. You can do this by:
- Going to Settings & Privacy > Settings > Your Facebook Information
- Clicking “Download Your Information” and selecting Messenger
- Once the download is ready, open the archive and extract the Messenger folder
Back up chats with a Messenger export tool
There are specialized third party apps that connect securely to Messenger and allow you to export your conversations in a standard format. Some options include:
| App | Platform | Export Formats |
|---|---|---|
| Messenger Chat Exporter | Android | PDF, TXT, ZIP |
| Export Messenger Chat History | iOS | PDF, ZIP, CSV |
Back up chats manually
You can also manually save copies of your chats. In Messenger you can tap on a conversation, tap “More Options,” then “Print Messages.” This will save the chat as a PDF you can view in other apps. You’ll have to do this for each conversation though so it’s time consuming.
Conclusion
The old Messenger as many users knew it is likely gone for good unless Facebook unexpectedly decides to revert some changes. But if you still want to recapture aspects of the classic Messenger experience, trying an older version, alternate app, or exporting your chats can help ease the transition. Over time, you may get used to the new interface and features.