What is WhatsApp on Wikipedia - briefly?
WhatsApp is a freeware, cross-platform messaging and voice-over-IP (VoIP) service owned by Meta Platforms. It allows users to send text messages and make voice and video calls, share images, documents, user locations, and other content. The service was founded in 2009 by Brian Acton and Jan Koum.
What is WhatsApp on Wikipedia - in detail?
WhatsApp, as described on Wikipedia, is a freeware, cross-platform messaging and Voice over IP (VoIP) service owned by Facebook Inc. It allows users to send text messages and voice messages, make voice and video calls, and share images, documents, user locations, and other content. The service operates on mobile devices and personal computers, with support for a range of desktop operating systems as well as through a web browser client.
The application's development began in 2009 by Brian Acton and Jan Koum, both former employees of Yahoo! Inc. They incorporated WhatsApp Inc. in California on June 8, 2009. The name "WhatsApp" is a play on the phrase "What's up", reflecting the casual nature of the service. In February 2014, Facebook acquired WhatsApp for approximately $19 billion, making it one of the most significant acquisitions in Silicon Valley history.
The service has evolved significantly since its inception. Initially, it was only available on smartphones, but later expanded to support feature phones and personal computers. In 2016, WhatsApp introduced end-to-end encryption for all communications sent through the app, ensuring that messages are secure and can be read only by the intended recipients.
WhatsApp has become a global phenomenon with over two billion users in more than 180 countries as of February 2018. It is particularly popular in developing countries where traditional SMS texting is less affordable or reliable. The platform has not only transformed the way people communicate but also influenced how businesses interact with their customers, offering tools for business messaging and customer support.
The Wikipedia entry on WhatsApp provides detailed information about its history, features, controversies, and impact on society and industry. It highlights the service's commitment to privacy and security, as well as its role in facilitating real-time communication across diverse geographical locations and technological platforms. The encyclopedia also delves into the legal and regulatory challenges faced by WhatsApp, including data privacy concerns and compliance with various international laws.
In summary, WhatsApp is a comprehensive messaging platform that has revolutionized modern communication. Its entry on Wikipedia offers an in-depth look at its origins, evolution, global impact, and the intricate workings of this influential service.