What does "Meta" in WhatsApp mean?

What does Meta in WhatsApp mean - briefly?

"Meta" in WhatsApp refers to the company that owns and operates WhatsApp. Meta Platforms Inc., formerly known as Facebook Inc., acquired WhatsApp in 2014.

What does Meta in WhatsApp mean - in detail?

The term "Meta" in the context of WhatsApp refers to a broader concept that encompasses the overarching goals and strategies of the company that owns the messaging platform, Facebook Inc. In October 2021, Facebook Inc. announced a significant rebranding effort, changing its corporate name to Meta. This change reflects the company's ambitious vision to transition from being primarily a social media network provider to becoming a pioneer in the development of the metaverse—a collective virtual shared space created by the convergence of physically persistent virtual worlds, augmented reality, and the internet.

The renaming of Facebook Inc. to Meta underscores the company's commitment to investing heavily in creating immersive digital experiences that go beyond traditional social media platforms. WhatsApp, as one of the flagship products under the Meta umbrella, is expected to evolve and integrate features that align with this new vision. This could include enhancements such as virtual reality (VR) capabilities, augmented reality (AR) filters, and other innovative tools aimed at enriching user interactions within the metaverse ecosystem.

In summary, "Meta" in WhatsApp signifies a forward-looking approach that positions the messaging app within a broader framework of technological advancements and future-oriented digital experiences. This shift aims to prepare WhatsApp for an era where virtual and augmented realities become integral components of everyday communication and interaction.