ICQ messenger shuts down after almost 28 years
End of an Era: ICQ to Shut Down in 2024?
ICQ, the pioneering messaging app launched in 1996, is set to shut down on June 26, 2024, after nearly 28 years of operation. At its peak, ICQ was a popular platform with over 100 million users, predating other messaging services like AOL Instant Messenger and Yahoo Messenger. The app, which has been owned by VK since 2010, will be closing its doors, and users are encouraged to transition to VK Messenger and Workspace. The reasons for the shutdown have not been disclosed.
What was the official launch year of ICQ, and how did it compare in timing to other popular messengers like AOL Instant Messenger?
ICQ was officially launched in 1996, just a short time before AOL Instant Messenger. This timing was critical to its early success, as it was one of the first instant messaging services to gain widespread popularity.
At its peak, how many users did ICQ have, and what were some of the key features that contributed to its popularity?
At its peak, ICQ had over 100 million registered users. Several key features contributed to its popularity:
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Real-time Communication: ICQ was one of the first messaging apps that allowed users to communicate in real-time6. This was a significant advancement over the slower email communications that were common at the time.
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User-Friendly Interface: ICQ was known for its ease of use, which made it accessible to a broad audience6. Users could start chatting immediately with minimal setup, enhancing its appeal to those new to online communication.
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Versatile Chat Options: The platform supported both one-on-one and group chats, which made it versatile for personal conversations as well as group discussions, planning, and coordination5.
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Global Connectivity: ICQ enabled people to connect with others worldwide at no cost, which was particularly appealing during an era when international communication was generally expensive and less accessible6.
These features made ICQ a pioneering and highly popular platform in the realm of online messaging during its early years6.