WhatsApp

WhatsApp is a cross-platform instant messaging app owned by Meta Platforms, Inc. It enables users to send text and voice messages, make voice and video calls, and share images, documents, location, and other media over an Internet connection. The app runs on iOS and Android devices and also offers a Web/Desktop client that mirrors chats from a connected mobile device.

Launched in 2009 by Jan Koum and Brian Acton, WhatsApp grew into one of the world’s most widely used messaging services. In 2014 it was acquired by Facebook, Inc. for about $19 billion. In 2021 Facebook rebranded as Meta Platforms, and WhatsApp became part of Meta’s family of apps.

Security and privacy: WhatsApp provides end-to-end encryption for messages and calls by default, meaning only the communicating parties can access the content. Users can control privacy settings, such as who can see last seen or profile information. The service supports group chats, status updates, and sharing of multimedia and documents.

Business offerings: WhatsApp Business is a separate app intended for customer communication, featuring business profiles, automated messages, and quick replies. The WhatsApp Business API is designed for larger organizations and can be integrated with customer management and support systems.

Impact and considerations: WhatsApp has a global user base and is widely used for both personal communication and customer service. It has faced scrutiny over data practices and its relationship with its parent company, Meta, as well as regulatory concerns about privacy and access to users’ communications.