When did WhatsApp start - briefly?
WhatsApp was founded by Brian Acton and Jan Koum in 2009. The application officially launched on January 9, 2010.
When did WhatsApp start - in detail?
WhatsApp, a globally recognized messaging platform, began its journey in the tech world in 2009. The story of WhatsApp's inception is intricately tied to the founders, Jan Koum and Brian Acton, who shared a vision of creating a seamless communication experience for users worldwide.
In February 2009, Koum and Acton incorporated WhatsApp Inc. in California. The initial idea was simple yet powerful: to build an application that would display users' statuses next to their names, much like the way BlackBerry Messenger (BBM) worked. However, as they delved deeper into the project, they realized the potential of creating a messaging platform that could transcend the limitations of traditional SMS services.
The first version of WhatsApp was released in November 2009 for the iPhone. It allowed users to set a status next to their name and view the statuses of others. This feature, though rudimentary by today's standards, laid the foundation for what would become a revolutionary messaging service.
In July 2010, Apple approved WhatsApp 2.0, which introduced the messaging functionality that users have come to associate with the platform. This update transformed WhatsApp from a simple status-sharing app into a full-fledged messaging service, enabling users to send text messages to their contacts for free.
The success of WhatsApp can be attributed to its simplicity and ease of use. It quickly gained traction among users who were looking for an alternative to expensive SMS plans. By 2011, WhatsApp had amassed a substantial user base, prompting the founders to monetize the platform through a subscription-based model.
In February 2014, Facebook acquired WhatsApp for approximately $19 billion, marking one of the largest acquisitions in tech history. This acquisition not only validated WhatsApp's success but also paved the way for further growth and integration with other Facebook services.
Today, WhatsApp is used by billions of people worldwide, offering features such as voice and video calls, end-to-end encryption, and multimedia sharing. The journey from a simple status-sharing app to a global communication powerhouse is a testament to the vision and determination of its founders.