How To Fix Links Not Opening Facebook Messenger For Android And iPhone?

To fix issues where links aren't opening in Facebook Messenger on Android and iPhone, follow these troubleshooting steps based on the information provided in the search results:

Android:

1. Update Messenger: Check for updates in the respective app stores (Play Store or alternative sources) and ensure you have the latest version of the Messenger app.

   • Search for Messenger in the app store.
   • Install any pending updates.

2. Change Default Browser: Set your preferred mobile browser as the default handler for external links within Messenger.

   • Open phone settings.
   • Find "Apps," "App Info," or similar options.
   • Look for the "Browsers" section or "Default apps" > "Browser app."
   • Choose your desired browser from the list.

3. Enable 'Open Links in Default Browser': Force Messenger to use your system browser rather than its built-in viewer.

   • Within Messenger, navigate to your profile/settings (top-left corner).
   • Tap the gear icon (if necessary) to enter settings.
   • Scroll down and look for "Photos & Media."
   • Enable "Open Links in Default Browser."

4. Disable Link Preview: Stop Messenger from showing inline link previews, which can interfere with direct linking.

   • Enter Messenger settings.
   • Tap the gear icon (top-right corner).
   • Find "Photos & media" and toggle off "Link previews."

5. Delete and Reinstall Messenger: Uninstall and then reinstall the app to reset any localized issues.

6. Clear Messenger App Cache: Remove temporary files that may cause conflicts.

   • Access device settings.
   • Head to "Apps & notifications" or equivalent sections.
   • Find the Messenger app under "App info."
   • Tap "Storage & cache" and choose "Clear cache."

7. Check Safety Features: Some safety features in your Google Account or device settings might interfere with link functionality. Consider turning off "Enhanced Safe Browsing" in your Google Account's security settings.

iPhone:

The general approach for fixing link issues on iPhone follows the same principles as those listed above for Android, except for changing the default browser since iPhones typically rely on their native Safari browser. Instead, consider the following additional tips:

1. Set Chrome as Default Browser: If you were previously using Chrome as the default browser and encountered issues, switch back to Safari temporarily and see if the issue resolves itself.

2. Restart Phone: Restart your iPhone occasionally to refresh memory and clear temporary caches.

3. Software Update: Verify that your iPhone runs the most recent version of iOS.

Remember to perform each action carefully and test the methods sequentially to determine whether the issue gets resolved.