Who owns WhatsApp at the moment - briefly?
Meta Platforms, Inc., formerly known as Facebook, currently owns WhatsApp. The acquisition took place in February 2014 for a reported $19 billion.
Who owns WhatsApp at the moment - in detail?
At present, Meta Platforms, Inc., formerly known as Facebook, Inc., is the owner of WhatsApp. The acquisition took place in February 2014 when Facebook announced it had reached an agreement to acquire WhatsApp for approximately $19 billion. This transaction included a combination of cash and Facebook shares. The deal was finalized in October 2014, marking one of the largest acquisitions in the tech industry at that time.
Prior to this acquisition, WhatsApp was an independent company founded by Jan Koum and Brian Acton in 2009. They developed the messaging application as a alternative to SMS, offering users a more cost-effective and efficient way to communicate. The app quickly gained popularity, particularly among younger demographics, due to its user-friendly interface and cross-platform compatibility.
Under Meta's ownership, WhatsApp has continued to expand its features and services. It now includes end-to-end encryption for enhanced security, voice and video call capabilities, and the option for users to send documents, images, and videos. The platform also supports group chats and has introduced features like WhatsApp Business, which allows companies to communicate with their customers directly through the app.
Despite some initial concerns about user privacy following the acquisition, WhatsApp has maintained its commitment to data protection and encryption. Meta's focus on leveraging WhatsApp's extensive user base for business communication and advertising opportunities has driven significant growth in both user engagement and revenue.
In summary, WhatsApp is currently owned by Meta Platforms, Inc., and the acquisition has facilitated the integration of advanced features while maintaining a strong focus on user privacy and security.