Since what year has WhatsApp been operating - briefly?
WhatsApp began operating in 2009.
Since what year has WhatsApp been operating - in detail?
WhatsApp, one of the world's most popular messaging platforms, began its operations in 2009. The application was founded by Brian Acton and Jan Koum, both former employees of Yahoo! Inc. The idea behind WhatsApp was to create a more efficient and user-friendly alternative to traditional SMS services, leveraging the internet to facilitate messaging.
Initially launched on January 24, 2009, for the iPhone operating system, WhatsApp quickly gained traction among users due to its simplicity and reliability. Within months of its release, the app saw significant growth in user base, which prompted Acton and Koum to expand their operations. In August 2011, WhatsApp was made available for Android devices, further accelerating its global adoption.
The success of WhatsApp caught the attention of larger tech companies, including Facebook. In February 2014, Facebook acquired WhatsApp in a deal worth approximately $19 billion. This acquisition marked a significant milestone in WhatsApp's history, as it allowed the company to scale its operations and integrate with Facebook's extensive network.
Since 2009, WhatsApp has evolved from a simple messaging platform to a comprehensive communication tool, offering features such as voice and video calls, end-to-end encryption for secure conversations, and even business solutions for companies looking to engage with their customers more effectively. Today, WhatsApp boasts over 2 billion users worldwide, solidifying its status as one of the most influential technologies in the digital age.