Messenger Lite for iPhone

A more simple messaging app

Messenger Lite is a free social and communication app that works just as well as Facebook Messenger. The only difference is that it is lighter in a way that it takes up less storage space and consumes less of your mobile data.

Messenger Lite also features a more simple interface but can still deliver messaging functions efficiently — making it the ideal alternative for people who are looking for a more straightforward chat app. Note that similar to the main messaging app, this lite version still requires you to log in using your Facebook credentials.

Messenger on a diet

Facebook Messenger has reached miles when it comes to improving their service by adding other functions in their app that let you do more than send and receive messages. In fact, it has become an all-around app where you can send documents and files, scan QR codes, and even play games by yourself or with others. There are also customization options like changing chat colors, setting a photo, and assigning nicknames to chat members.

While these are admittedly impressive features that add enjoyment to using the app, it is also undeniable that most of these additions are unnecessary and that they defeat the purpose of having a messaging app that will not confuse users with its complexity. This is where Messenger Lite comes into play. This messaging alternative is free from all the weight that the other extensions and functions carry.

You can say that this app is a slimmed-down version of the Facebook Messenger app as it does not have the storage weight that the original messaging app carries. Aside from having fewer distractions on its interface that would not meddle with its basic function, Messenger Lite is, in fact, a lighter file that can be downloaded and used with as little mobile data as possible.

Getting the job done

There are a lot of extras missing in Messenger Lite but rest assured that they do not make the app any less boring. It does not limit itself strictly to just sending and receiving text messages. Users can still enjoy exchanging emojis and sending multimedia files to each other. Save for the lack of customization options and games, this messaging app still functions just the same as the main app.

Additionally, you can receive notifications, be able to check who is online, and create group chats so you can communicate with all of your friends or family members using just one chat box. You can also make calls — both audio and video — with your Facebook friends. All of these features are free to use as long as you have a stable internet connection be it via data or Wi-Fi.

The end of an era

A few years after shutting down the iOS version of Messenger Lite, Meta is reported to shut down the Android version of it, as well. That means no updates will roll out in the future and it has been removed from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store listings, respectively. While the APK files can still be downloaded from other sources, they're not guaranteed to work as they used to anymore and will instead link to the Facebook Lite or Messenger apps when launched.

Back to basics

Messenger Lite is very user-friendly and perfect for people who simply want a smooth-sailing chat app that makes communication definitely easier. There are no additional columns and buttons that would lead to extra functions, which can be confusing especially to those who are not familiar with chat messaging. Its interface is super easy to learn and navigate. However, it should be noted the updates for the app have ceased due to Meta shutting down the service.