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Whatsapp now has 500 million active users to offer its new social overlord
Some companies lose their following after an acquisition, but not Whatsapp -- apparently, its userbase just continued to grow after Facebook bought it for $19 billion. The FB-owned entity has revealed that it now has 500 million active users, up 50 million from the time the social network snapped it up. According to Whatsapp CEO Jan Kuom, the app has seen the fastest growth in Brazil, India, Mexico and Russia in recent months. Kuom didn't mention whether the buyout helped boost Whatsapp's influence in those regions, but it's worth noting that Brazil, India and Mexico had some of the biggest Facebook user numbers in 2013, according to a statistics analyst. He also mentioned that people have been sharing over 700 million photos and 100 million videos per day over the app. With growth like this, we wouldn't be surprised if it's true that providers everywhere have collectively lost out on $33 billion due to the popular messaging app. Unfortunately, the CEO didn't have anything to share about the VoIP feature for iOS, so the Whatsapp faithful will have to wait a bit more.
Mariella Moon04.23.2014
US will force Facebook to protect WhatsApp user privacy
When Facebook bought WhatsApp, some were worried that the messenger would go back on its promise not to collect swathes of personal data in the style of its new owner. Luckily for you, the FTC has other plans, and will only give its blessing to the $19 billion deal if both companies swear to respect WhatsApp's original user agreement. In a letter to the pair, FTC consumer protection chief Jessica L. Rich has said that if WhatsApp pulls a privacy bait-and-switch , then Zuckerberg and co. will be in breach of section five of the FTC act, with harsh penalties to follow.
Daniel Cooper04.11.2014
WhatsApp's VoIP feature for iOS revealed in leaked screenshots
Just a few weeks after WhatsApp CEO Jan Koum hinted that his Facebook-owned service will integrate voice communication features (VoIP, specifically) into its apps by this summer, we're finally seeing alleged screenshots that show off what it'll look like on iOS. The shots, which were leaked by iPhoneItalia, show an interface that looks awfully similar to the iOS 7.1 phone UI -- complete with circular buttons, blurred background and even a similar keyboard (is the shift key on or off?), albeit with a camera button on top. We're hearing that you'll be able to make calls for free over WiFi or cellular, which will help WhatsApp compete against the litany of other VoIP apps and services available on the market.
Brad Molen03.14.2014
Google denies making a bid for WhatsApp
Rumors that Google engaged in a bidding war with Facebook over WhatsApp are false -- at least, if you ask Google's Sundar Pichai. The Senior VP tells The Telegraph that his company "never made an offer" to buy the messaging giant, and that any claims to the contrary are "simply untrue." We're inclined to believe him, although the denial suggests that Facebook may have paid $19 billion so that it wouldn't have to compete with Google (or anyone else) on yet another important acquisition.
Jon Fingas02.26.2014
Live at Mark Zuckerberg's MWC 2014 keynote
Given Facebook's recent $19 billion purchase of WhatsApp, Mark Zuckerberg's Mobile World Congress keynote just got a lot more interesting. Hopefully he'll illuminate us more about how the chat app will fit into the social network's plans, since that'll be top of mind. Either way, we'll no doubt hear more about Highlights, Paper and Trending Topics. To get his take on all that and catch anything juicy, tune in right here at the time below. February 24, 2014 12:00:00 PM EST
Steve Dent02.24.2014
WhatsApp to add voice communication by summer
When the announcement hit that Facebook was snapping up WhatsApp (beating out Google in the process), the gargantuan $19 billion price tag was hard to justify. But, with 465 million active users per month, there's a lot of potential for other, perhaps more profitable services. Today at MWC, TechCrunch has heard from WhatsApp CEO Jan Koum that a new service is indeed coming to the platform relatively soon: voice communication. Of WhatsApp's now 330 million daily user base, those on Android and iOS will get the feature first when it rolls out in second quarter 2014, followed by those on "some Nokia and BlackBerry phones." We're not clear on exactly how it'll work -- whether you'll send voice messages like Voxer, or make calls like Skype -- or if we'll be expected to pay for the privilege. (You can record and send audio clips within WhatsApp conversations already, but it's not exactly elegant.) Given there are a number of free voice-based services available to us already, however, we imagine it being part of the standard subscription. Assuming WhatsApp actually want us to use it, anyway.
Jamie Rigg02.24.2014
Weekly Roundup: Facebook acquires WhatsApp, tablet buyer's guide and more!
You might say the week is never really done in consumer technology news. Your workweek, however, hopefully draws to a close at some point. This is the Weekly Roundup on Engadget, a quick peek back at the top headlines for the past seven days -- all handpicked by the editors here at the site. Click on through the break, and enjoy.
Andy Bowen02.23.2014
Daily Roundup: Facebook buys WhatsApp, tablet buyer's guide and more!
You might say the day is never really done in consumer technology news. Your workday, however, hopefully draws to a close at some point. This is the Daily Roundup on Engadget, a quick peek back at the top headlines for the past 24 hours -- all handpicked by the editors here at the site. Click on through the break, and enjoy.
Andy Bowen02.20.2014Google reportedly offered to acquire WhatsApp for $10 billion (update)
While WhatsApp just agreed to a $19 billion acquisition deal with Facebook, the social network wasn't the first to approach the messaging service with a very generous proposal. According to Forbes, Google offered $10 billion to acquire the app. Though it's not clear exactly when Mountain View proposed this deal, sources said the offer didn't come with the promise of a board seat, unlike Facebook's agreement. One thing is clear, though: Google was apparently so set on keeping WhatsApp within its reach that it offered the startup money to be informed if any other companies approached it with acquisition offers. The Information reports that WhatsApp turned down this unusual proposal about six months ago. The takeaway from all this? If you hadn't guessed it from the astronomical figures -- 19 billion dollars, you guys -- Google and Facebook recognize the mobile instant messaging service's huge value. 450 million active users every month is none too shabby, after all. Update: According to The Information, Google CEO Larry Page met with WhatsApp CEO Jan Koum last week, as a last-minute attempt to stop an impending acquisition by Facebook. Page reportedly called WhatsApp "a big threat to Facebook" and even offered to outbid the social network's $19 billion offer. Koum should feel flattered; that's some pretty heated competition.
Sarah Silbert02.20.2014
US gets its own iTunes Festival and other news from Feb. 19, 2014
Apple's iTunes Festival has been a UK mainstay for the past few years, but now the US is getting its own. Apple has announced its first US iTunes Festival to be held during SXSW in Austin, Texas. The festival, running from March 11-15, will feature Coldplay, Imagine Dragons, Pitbull, Keith Urban, Willie Nelson, ZEDD and more. If you can't make it to SXSW, the festival will be live streamed for free, and available on demand afterwards. There will be a US iTunes Festival app, as well as a channel on the Apple TV. "The iTunes Festival in London has become an incredible way for Apple to share its love of music with our customers," said Eddy Cue, Apple's senior vice president of Internet Software and Services, in a news release. "We're excited about the incredible lineup of artists performing and SXSW is the perfect place to debut the first iTunes Festival in the US." Other news from Wednesday afternoon includes: What's the latest app on your home screen to be snatched up by Facebook? WhatsApp, which has been snapped up for a jaw-dropping $16 billion plus $3 billion in potential stock. Like with Instagram, Facebook says that WhatsApp will remain its own product and be semi-independent from normal Facebook operations. Apple has been named the world's most valuable brand once again by Brandirectory. Coming in on its heels are rivals Samsung, Google and Microsoft. An ongoing class action lawsuit provides a clearer look into the claims that Apple was part of an anti-poaching pact with Google, Intel and other companies. Samsung has released a new round of ads, and once again, it's poking fun at the iPad. And kick back with these features: Alchaemy: Transforming Apple devices into one-of-a-kind originals Pad & Quill's Messenger Bag and Sleeve feed your leather fetish
Megan Lavey-Heaton02.20.2014
Why did Facebook spend $19 billion on a messaging app?
WhatsApp is a voice and text instant messaging platform with apps for most every smartphone OS. It provides free service for the first year and costs a dollar annually after that. Why then, did Facebook just buy WhatsApp -- aside from the obvious cachet, keeping it away from Google and free advertising that comes with its omnipresence in Katy Perry's Roar video -- for $19 billion (with a 'b'), when it already has Facebook Messenger? In a word: users. 450 million of them to be precise, and 315 million of those are active on a given day. In fact, WhatsApp's users are so prolific, its messaging volume is roughly equal to that of the entire world's SMS traffic. And, WhatsApp is huge overseas and in emerging markets. According to a report from mobile marketing and research firm Jana, the app is far and away the most used messaging service in India, Brazil, Mexico, Nigeria and South Africa. The Information, which got a more in-depth look at Jana's research, shows that Facebook Messenger usage is far, far lower in those same countries. Now, is that massive international user base worth $19 billion? It's hard for us to understand how it possibly could be. WhatsApp's founders have pledged to keep the app ad- and gimmick-free, so there aren't any indications that new revenue streams are coming. And, while the acquisition fits in perfectly with Facebook's plan to expand its app offerings, the social network has promised to use the same hands-off approach it did with Instagram -- leveraging its "expertise, resources and scale" to grow the platform, while keeping WhatsApp operationally independent. So, we'll have to wait and see how WhatsApp plans to prove its worth. Maybe some more music video synergy like the kind found after the break?
Michael Gorman02.19.2014Facebook to buy WhatsApp for $19 billion
The balance of power in the mobile messaging space is about to shift in a big way -- Facebook has just announced plans to acquire WhatsApp for the equivalent of $19 billion in cash and stock. The deal will see WhatsApp run semi-independently, much like Instagram. The chat service will maintain its brand and existing offices, but it will take advantage of Facebook's "expertise, resources and scale." It's safe to say that the combined entity will have a lot of clout should the deal close later this year. WhatsApp already has over 450 million active users every month; combine that with Facebook Messenger and competitors like Line suddenly appear tiny by comparison.
Jon Fingas02.19.2014
WhatsApp Messenger gets its long-awaited iOS 7 makeover
WhatsApp is more than a little late to the iOS 7 app update party, but it's making up for the long delay with a sweeping upgrade to its Messenger client. In addition to sporting an appropriately flatter interface, the new version introduces broadcast lists -- you can now address large groups of people at once, such as an entire class. The refresh also improves location sharing with a 3D map, while shutterbugs can crop images and see larger thumbnails. It's easier to manage blocked contacts, too. Chatty iPhone owners can grab the WhatsApp update for free from the App Store, although they'll eventually need to fork over 99 cents per year.
Jon Fingas12.03.2013
WhatsApp updated for iOS 7 with new broadcast lists, shared location features
WhatsApp released a new version of its app with a major facelift and some new features. The popular third-party messaging app is one of the most used cross-platform instant messengers on iOS, Android, BlackBerry, and Windows Phone. The latest iOS update brings the much anticipated iOS 7-inspired visual refresh to the app. The icon is less glossy and flatter, and the app internals are blue, grey, and white and flat all over. But WhatsApp also received a number of new features with the latest release as well. The app now features "broadcast lists" which allows user to send messages to groups of people, be they classmates, a group of friends, or work colleagues. The new WhatsApp also includes a number of new location sharing features, including support for 3D maps and the ability to hide places. Check out the full release notes below. WhatsApp is a free download. What's New in Version 2.11.5 - new iOS 7 User Interface - broadcast lists: communicate with your classmates, work colleagues or just friends by messaging many people at once. - improved share location: 3D map view, hide places, search places - large thumbs: see more - new notification alerts and sounds: WhatsApp Settings > Notifications > New Message. - application will now use your device text size as configured in iOS Settings > General > Text Size - new improved User Interface for managing your blocked contacts: WhatsApp Settings > Chat Settings > Blocked - crop image before sending Reminder: you can backup your WhatsApp conversations into iCloud. Simply visit WhatsApp Settings > Chat Settings > Chat Backup and tap on "Back Up Now"
Michael Grothaus12.02.2013
Stephen Elop says he's ready for change at Microsoft
All eyes are on Stephen Elop. Just hours ago, he introduced Nokia's first Windows tablet; he's also overseeing his division's integration into Microsoft; and Redmond is even considering him as its next CEO. During our interview today, Elop understandably couldn't comment on the prospect of taking Steve Ballmer's place, but he did say he's ready to take up the challenge of bringing the two giants together, no matter what. "I'm looking forward to being a part of driving that change within the company in whatever capacity," Elop said.
Richard Lai10.22.2013
WhatsApp introduces major new audio features
WhatsApp is the uber-popular messaging app available on all major smartphone platforms, including iOS. With over 300 million users, it's possible that it has one of the largest followings ever. Intent on growing even bigger by adding new features, the company has introduced several audio enhancements to its app. As AllThingsD reports, WhatsApp is launching a push-to-talk voice messaging feature that will allow people to send voice messages with a tap: "[WhatsApp CEO Jan] Koum's contention is that WhatApp's innovation is in how simple it makes sending a voice message. He pulled out the Facebook Messenger app to show that it takes three taps to make a voice recording. With the updated WhatsApp, a user pushes to record a message rather than type one. When she lets go, the message sends. If she decides not to send, she swipes to the left and the recording is deleted. All that is built into a single tap. "The number of taps matters. People want to send a message and be on their way," Koum said. Additional features of the latest WhatsApp update include the removal of time limits on voice messages; volume switching -- when the phone is held at arm's length WhatsApp will increase the volume, and when it is held near the ear WhatsApp will decrease the volume; and a blue microphone icon notification that tells you when your recipient has heard their message. WhatsApp is a free download, and the first year of service is also free. After one year, WhatsApp services costs US$0.99 annually.
Michael Grothaus08.07.2013
WhatsApp voice messaging updated with one-press record-and-send feature
These days, you don't even have to ring someone, listen to their spiel and wait for a beep when you can just use apps to send voice snippets. WhatsApp, which recently reached 300 million users, has made its existing experience even easier with a new feature that lets you record and send voice memos with one press of the mic icon. A WhatsApp spokesperson told Engadget that the company has "spent a lot of time refining [voice messaging] and made it really simple to use." As a testament to this, WhatsApp has now removed length limits for recorded messages and plays audio within the app instead of opening a media player. Playback will automatically switch from a handset's speakers to its earpiece when the device is held to your ear, and the mic icon will turn blue when recipients have listened to spoken missives. With the new perks available on the mess of platforms WhatsApp calls home (iOS, Android, Windows Phone, BB10 and Nokia Symbian / S40), we bet everyone with that chatty friend are shaking in their boots.
Mariella Moon08.07.2013
WhatsApp expands its business model to iOS, will cost users 99 cents per year
Even though the WhatsApp iPhone application received an update yesterday, the popular messaging service made it official in a blog post today, detailing notes from the latest release. What's especially interesting here, however, is that WhatsApp is bringing a familiar cost scheme over to Apple's platform. Essentially, iOS users can download the app free of charge, but they will now have to pay a 99-cent yearly fee after the first twelve months of using it -- a business model similar to the one WhatsApp already implements on Android, BlackBerry and Windows Phone. Hey, it's still but a small price to pay to somewhat fashionably keep tabs on all your amigos 24/7, eh?
Edgar Alvarez07.17.2013
WhatsApp for iPhone gets iCloud backups, multiple-photos sends, more; goes subscription-based
Uber-popular cross-platform messaging app WhatsApp received a significant update for iPhone today. The most immediately noticeable new feature is that now users can send multiple photos at the same time. WhatsApp now also offers the ability to back up all your chats via iCloud. In addition the company has added support for URL hooks so developers of third-party apps can easily integrate their apps with WhatsApp. But there's also a much more significant change for WhatsApp today. Previously the iPhone app cost US$0.99, but now it is a free download with free use for the first year and a $0.99 subscription fee for each additional year. Current users who originally paid for the app will be able to use the app for free for the rest of their lives. Here's what WhatsApp had to say about the financial changes on their blog: We are updating our business model for new iPhone users going forward. As you know, we used to charge iPhone users a $0.99 one time payment, while Android and other platforms had free service for the first year and paid $0.99 a year after that. From now on, we've simplified our business model so that all users on all platforms will enjoy their first year of WhatsApp service for free, and only pay $.99 per year after that. We feel that this model will allow us to become the communications service of the 21st century, and provide you the best way to stay in touch with your friends and family with no ads getting in the way. The good news for all current iPhone users is that WhatsApp will be free of charge for the rest of your life. WhatsApp is (now) a free download.
Michael Grothaus07.17.2013
Whatsapp for iOS updated with multiple photo support, iCloud chat history backup
We here at Engadget love app updates, especially when new features and functionality are involved. WhatsApp is doing this very thing with version 2.10.1, which was released today. The refresh offers a few pleasant additions, such as the ability to send multiple photos to someone at the same time, as well as the option to backup and restore your iCloud chat history. Lastly, it also includes URL schema support for third-party apps and is currently being offered for free. Head below to grab the link to an iTunes App Store near you.
Brad Molen07.16.2013