One of the earliest messaging applications, ICQ, is officially closing its doors after a remarkable 28-year run. Here are the details!
Russian-based VK company, which has owned ICQ since 2010, recently announced the platform’s shutdown. This announcement has brought back nostalgic memories for many. Originally launched by Mirabilis in 1996, ICQ quickly amassed a large user base.
ICQ to Officially Shut Down on June 26
ICQ experienced significant growth after being acquired by AOL in 1998. By 2001, ICQ had 100 million registered users. However, it gradually fell behind other messaging applications and was sold to Digital Sky Technologies (now VK) in 2010. Despite VK’s efforts to update ICQ to resemble modern messaging apps, the platform never regained its former popularity.
ICQ distinguished itself from other messaging applications by assigning users a unique identification number. It also offered features like offline messaging and SMS integration. The memorable “Uh oh!” notification sound became an iconic feature of the service. During the early days of the internet, ICQ, alongside AOL Instant Messenger and MSN Messenger, played a crucial role in online communication. Its unique features and simple interface made it a part of millions of users’ lives. However, the rapid evolution of technology and the rise of new applications led to the decline of older services like ICQ.
ICQ has been largely inactive for some time, and VK’s decision only formalizes its closure. The official shutdown of ICQ marks the end of an era. Don’t forget to share your ICQ memories with us in the comments below.
