Messenger

Facebook Messenger (often called just Messenger) is a free instant messaging app and platform developed by Meta. While it originally started as part of the Facebook social network, it is now a standalone app that focuses on real-time communication.

It allows you to send text messages, make high-quality video or voice calls, and share files without needing a phone number—just an internet connection and a Facebook/Meta account.

Voice & Video Calls: Individual or group calls (including Messenger Rooms for up to 50 people).

Customization: Personalize chats with “Themes,” nicknames, and specific emoji reactions.

Privacy: Includes Secret Conversations with end-to-end encryption and “Vanishing Mode” for disappearing messages.

Meta AI: A built-in assistant that can answer questions, generate images, or help with tasks directly in your chat.

Payments: Send or receive money (in supported regions) via Meta Pay.

## How to Use Messenger
Getting started is straightforward, whether you are on a smartphone or a computer.

1. Set Up Your Account
On Mobile: Download the app from the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android).

On Desktop: You can use it via Messenger.com or the Facebook website.

Login: Sign in using your existing Facebook email/phone number and password.

2. Starting a Chat
Tap the Pencil icon (usually top-right) to start a new message.

Type a friend’s name in the search bar. You don’t have to be Facebook friends with someone to message them, but if you aren’t, your message will go to their “Message Requests” folder.

3. Basic Controls Inside a Chat
Text Box: Type your message at the bottom.

Icons: Use the Camera icon to take a photo, the Microphone to record a voice note, or the Smiley Face for stickers and GIFs.

Calls: Tap the Phone icon for a voice call or the Video Camera icon for a video call (top-right of the chat).

4. Group Chats
To message multiple people at once, tap the Pencil icon and select multiple names, then tap Create Group. This is great for planning events or family threads.

## Pro-Tip: Managing Privacy
If you want to keep a conversation extra secure, tap the person’s name at the top of the chat and select “Go to Secret Conversation.” This ensures that only the two devices in that chat can read the messages.