The iconic instant messaging service ICQ, which played a significant role in the early days of online communication, is finally coming to an end after 27 years of operation. The announcement of ICQ’s shutdown was made by Russian company VK, the service’s steward since 2010. Users have been notified that ICQ will stop working from June 26th, and they are encouraged to transition to VK’s other chat solutions.
ICQ, founded in 1996 by Israeli company Mirabilis, quickly became one of the pioneering instant messenger services alongside AOL Instant Messenger and MSN Messenger. What set ICQ apart was its unique user identification system, assigning each user a number for connecting with others instead of using aliases or email addresses. Additionally, ICQ offered innovative features like SMS messaging and the ability to send messages to offline users, making it a popular choice among early internet users.
In 1998, ICQ was acquired by AOL, and by 2001, it boasted a user base of 100 million registered users. However, AOL’s subsequent merger with Time Warner proved to be disastrous, leading to the eventual sale of ICQ to Digital Sky Technologies in 2010. The service continued to operate under VK’s ownership, but over time, it struggled to compete with modern messenger apps like WhatsApp and Telegram. This decline was evident from the removal of ICQ from major app stores, signaling its diminishing relevance in the digital landscape.
The Legacy of ICQ
Despite its eventual demise, ICQ holds a special place in the hearts of those who grew up using the platform. The nostalgic “Uh oh!” alert and the excitement of connecting with friends in real-time are memories that many users will cherish. ICQ’s innovative approach to online communication paved the way for future messaging apps, leaving a lasting legacy in the history of the internet.
As ICQ prepares to bid farewell after 27 years, it marks the end of an era in the world of instant messaging. While the service may no longer be operational, its impact on the evolution of online communication is undeniable. The shutdown of ICQ serves as a reminder of the rapid pace of technological advancements and the ever-changing digital landscape. Farewell, ICQ, and thank you for the memories.
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