What company owns WhatsApp and what country is it based in - briefly?
WhatsApp is owned by Meta Platforms Inc., formerly known as Facebook Inc. The company is based in the United States.
What company owns WhatsApp and what country is it based in - in detail?
WhatsApp, the widely-used messaging platform, is owned by Meta Platforms Inc., formerly known as Facebook Inc. The company was founded by Brian Acton and Jan Koum in 2009, with the intention of creating a user-friendly and efficient mobile messaging service. In February 2014, Facebook acquired WhatsApp for approximately $19 billion, making it one of the largest acquisitions in the tech industry at that time.
Meta Platforms Inc., based in Menlo Park, California, is a global technology company that builds technologies to help people connect, find communities, and grow businesses. Under Meta's umbrella, WhatsApp has continued to evolve, expanding its features and user base. The platform now boasts over 2 billion users worldwide, making it one of the most popular messaging apps globally.
The acquisition by Facebook, now Meta, has allowed WhatsApp to integrate with other platforms within the company's ecosystem, such as Instagram and Messenger, offering users a seamless communication experience across different applications. Additionally, Meta's resources have enabled WhatsApp to invest in advanced technologies like end-to-end encryption, ensuring user privacy and security.
In summary, WhatsApp is owned by Meta Platforms Inc., which is headquartered in Menlo Park, California, United States. This acquisition has significantly contributed to the growth and development of WhatsApp, enhancing its features and expanding its global reach.