WhatsApp

WhatsApp is a free messaging and voice-over-IP service owned by Meta. Launched in 2009 by Brian Acton and Jan Koum, it was acquired by Facebook (now Meta) in 2014 for approximately $19 billion.

The platform offers end-to-end encrypted messaging, voice and video calls, file sharing, and status updates. Its key features include group chats supporting up to 1024 participants, disappearing messages, cross-platform functionality, and WhatsApp Business tools for companies.

With over 2 billion monthly active users globally, WhatsApp is particularly dominant in countries like India, Brazil, and throughout Europe and Latin America. Unlike many competitors, it operates without advertisements, requiring only a phone number for registration.

WhatsApp has faced scrutiny over privacy policies, particularly regarding data sharing with its parent company Meta. The service continues to evolve with features like Communities, multi-device capability, and enhanced security measures while maintaining its focus on privacy and reliable messaging.