When was WhatsApp released worldwide - briefly?
WhatsApp was first released in November 2009. However, it gained significant global traction and became widely used worldwide after its acquisition by Facebook in February 2014.
When was WhatsApp released worldwide - in detail?
WhatsApp, the globally popular messaging application, was initially released on January 24, 2009. The app was created by Brian Acton and Jan Koum, former employees of Yahoo!. Initially, the focus was on providing a simple and efficient alternative to traditional SMS texting, leveraging the capabilities of modern smartphones and their internet connectivity.
In its early stages, WhatsApp was primarily available for iPhone users via the App Store. The founders quickly recognized the potential of expanding to other platforms, leading to the release of a BlackBerry version in 2010. This move marked the beginning of WhatsApp's global expansion, as BlackBerry devices were popular among business professionals and young adults at the time.
The critical turning point for WhatsApp came with its release on Android in August 2010. The widespread adoption of Android devices globally allowed WhatsApp to reach a vast user base quickly. By 2013, WhatsApp had become one of the most popular messaging applications worldwide, with over 450 million active users across various platforms.
In February 2014, Facebook acquired WhatsApp for approximately $19 billion. This acquisition further solidified WhatsApp's position as a global communication tool, leading to continuous improvements and the addition of features like voice and video calls, end-to-end encryption, and Business API for companies to communicate with their customers more effectively.
Today, WhatsApp is available in over 180 countries and supports multiple languages, making it one of the most widely used communication platforms globally. Its evolution from a simple messaging app to a comprehensive communication tool has significantly impacted how people connect and interact worldwide.