Uh-oh: ICQ is shutting down on June 26
End of an Era: ICQ to Shut Down June 26!
ICQ, a once-popular messaging app from the 90s, is set to shut down on June 26, as announced by its current owner, the Russian company VK (formerly Mail.Ru Group). The company is directing users to transition to VK Messenger and VK WorkSpace for their personal and professional communication needs, respectively.
Originating in the era of IRC chats, ICQ simplified direct messaging with its unique sequential number system for user IDs. At its peak in the early 2000s, ICQ boasted 100 million registered accounts but was eventually overshadowed by other messaging platforms like AIM, Yahoo Messenger, and MSN Messenger. Despite its decline, ICQ's distinctive "uh-oh!" notification sound remains a nostalgic element for many users.
Which company currently owns ICQ, and what alternative messaging services are they recommending to users?
ICQ is currently owned by the Russian company VK, formerly known as Mail.Ru Group. As ICQ is shutting down on June 26, VK is recommending that users transition to its other messaging services: VK Messenger for casual chats and VK WorkSpace for professional conversations4.
What is the scheduled shutdown date for the ICQ messaging app?
The scheduled shutdown date for the ICQ messaging app is June 26.