The Launch of Facebook
Facebook, originally called "TheFacebook," was launched on February 4, 2004, by Mark Zuckerberg and his college roommates at Harvard University. Initially, it was limited to Harvard students.
2004
2005
Expansion and Name Change
In 2005, Facebook dropped "The" from its name and became simply "Facebook." The platform expanded to include students from other universities and high schools.
2006
Open to the Public
In 2006, Facebook opened its registration to anyone over the age of 13 with a valid email address, allowing the general public to join the platform.
2007
Introduction of the Facebook Platform
Facebook launched the Facebook Platform in 2007, allowing third-party developers to create applications and games that integrate with Facebook.
2008
Launch of Facebook Chat
In 2008, Facebook introduced Facebook Chat, a messaging feature that allowed users to communicate in real-time.
2009
Introduction of the Like Button
Facebook introduced the "Like" button in 2009, allowing users to express their approval of content shared by others.
2010
Launch of Facebook Places
In 2010, Facebook launched Facebook Places, a feature that allowed users to check in at locations and share their whereabouts with friends.
2011
Introduction of Timeline Profile
Facebook introduced the Timeline profile in 2011, offering a more visual and chronological way for users to display their personal history on the platform.
2012
Facebook Goes Public
Facebook held its initial public offering (IPO) on May 18, 2012, raising $16 billion and becoming one of the largest IPOs in tech history.
2013
Launch of Facebook Graph Search
In 2013, Facebook introduced Graph Search, a semantic search engine that allowed users to make more specific searches on the platform.
2014
Acquisition of WhatsApp and Oculus VR
Facebook acquired the messaging app WhatsApp for $19 billion and the virtual reality company Oculus VR for $2 billion in 2014, expanding its reach in both messaging and virtual reality.
2015
Launch of Facebook Live
In 2015, Facebook launched Facebook Live, a feature that allows users to broadcast live video to their friends and followers.
2016
Introduction of Reactions
Facebook introduced Reactions in 2016, offering users more ways to express themselves beyond the "Like" button with options such as Love, Haha, Wow, Sad, and Angry.
2018
Data Privacy Controversy
In 2018, Facebook faced significant scrutiny over data privacy issues, particularly related to the Cambridge Analytica scandal, which involved the misuse of user data for political advertising.
2021
Rebranding to Meta
In October 2021, Facebook rebranded its parent company to Meta Platforms, Inc., reflecting its focus on building the metaverse, a virtual reality space where users can interact in a more immersive way.
2023
Launch of Meta Verified
In 2023, Meta introduced Meta Verified, a subscription service offering users enhanced security features, customer support, and verification badges across its platforms, including Facebook.
