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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
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.
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.
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.
Google 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.
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
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?
Facebook 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.
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.
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"
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
WhatsApp update for WP8 brings in-app dialing, background agent support
A number of issues have plagued WhatsApp on Windows Phone 8, but hopefully this latest update has addressed some of them. While it's yet to integrate a VoIP function like Viber and other competitors, the new version allows you to initiate a call through the phone's dialer. It promises to fix notification problems as well, although you can still see a lot of complaints about push notifications on the Windows Phone Store. The latest version also adds support for Windows Phone background agents, which prevents the app from killing off music and other tasks. Let's not forget the new emoticons, because WhatsApp sure deserves a smiley for these much-needed changes.
WhatsApp says it has 250 million users
Mobile messaging app WhatsApp has hit a huge total of 250 million users, the company has told the Wall Street Journal. A couple of million users these days is no big deal, considering how big the smartphone audience has become, but 250 million users is significant. In fact, it's on par with Twitter or LinkedIn, and nearly the size of Skype. WhatsApp is one of a series of apps that allow users to send text messages back and forth to any device for free. Essentially, it's a "text-over-IP" type of service. That may not sound all that interesting (and again, there are a number of apps that do this, going all the way back to AOL's own Instant Messenger), but sending messages without paying an individual charge is obviously very appealing to a large audience, and WhatsApp has put a lot of those people together on its network. WhatsApp is also notable for charging a US$0.99 premium cost right up front, without any other in-app purchases or hidden fees. With a simple-to-understand, easy-to-use and one-time-pay messaging service, maybe it's easy to see just why WhatsApp is so popular. [via Mashable]
WhatsApp comes to BlackBerry Q10, expands its BB10 footprint
After becoming available on the Z10 just last month, it was only natural for WhatsApp to eventually expand its horizons within BlackBerry 10. And with the Q10 finally nearing its time to take off around the globe, what better time to make the renowned messaging app also compatible with the latest in physical QWERTY keys from the Waterloo-based company. As usual, it won't cost you a dime to get WhatsApp installed on that BlackBerry Q10 of yours, however a yearly fee of about $1 will be due if you're planning on using it for longer than the first twelve months. Either way, it's up for download now, so pay the source link below a visit if you're one of the lucky few to have RIM's BlackBerry's new jewel in your possession a little earlier than others.
Orange Libon adds picture messaging to iOS app
Libon is a messaging app backed by the European cell provider Orange that's making its way over to Android today, offering free calls, messaging and visual voicemail to smartphones on that side of the platform fence. But there's important news for us iOS users as well, as the app has also added free picture and audio messaging to our version, along with a push-to-talk feature. You can find the app for free on the App Store now. Orange makes money on this one using in-app purchases, which can add premium options like extra message storage, customization options or translations of your voicemails to text or to MP3 via email. These apps have gained a nice following with their free features. Libon, WhatsApp and others have created their own messaging ecosystems unrelated to what service you're using to power your phone. You'd think that with the iPhone so ubiquitous, Apple would have unified messaging as much as possible, and iMessage was their best try so far at doing just that. But these various services are still flourishing inside of the App Store itself.
