Who's the Next Billion-Dollar Startup?
Facebook surprised the tech community yesterday by announcing plans to acquire messaging service WhatsApp, but the shock was largely due to the insane $16 BILLION price tag – a number that could increase to $19 billion if WhatsApp plays its cards right.
During a conference call with analysts, Facebook chief Mark Zuckerberg said WhatsApp will help Facebook as it continues to transition to a more mobile-focused company. It's an "extremely high-quality product" with strong engagement, he said, and does not get as much attention in the U.S. as it deserves.
WhatsApp also has 450 million very valuable users. That could quickly surge to 1 billion as WhatsApp is adding about 1 million customers per day, Zuckerberg said, and any company with 1 billion users is extremely valuable. Facebook has said time and time again that it aims to connect the world, and now WhatsApp is tasked with helping the social network achieve that goal.
But while Zuck and the gang talk world domination, other tech startups are likely wondering if they too could secure such an enormous sum for their big idea. Inking a billion-dollar deal is the goal of any entrepreneur who heads to Silicon Valley, but are there any firms that could actually make it happen?
Hit the slideshow for a look at 10 smaller companies that have been making waves in recent months, and could become the next billion-dollar company.
When you heard that Facebook shelled out $16B+ for WhatsApp yesterday, did you ask, "What's WhatsApp"? You weren't the only one. While the app has proved its value, at least to the market, it isn't as popular in the United States as it is in Europe, Latin America, and India.
So, what is WhatsApp?
WhatsApp is a messaging app that lets users text, chat, and share media, including voice messages and video, with individuals or groups.
How does WhatsApp work?
WhatsApp relies on data to send messages, like iMessage or BBM, so it doesn't cut into your monthly text allotment.
How many people are using WhatsApp?
The service has 450 million monthly average users.
Where do these people live?
The majority of WhatsApp users live in Europe, India, and Latin America.
Who doesn't (or isn't supposed to) use WhatsApp?
Rabbis discourage the app's use among ultra-Orthodox Jews,
Can I get WhatsApp? What phones does it work on?
You can. It works on iPhone, Android, BlackBerry, Symbian, and Windows devices.
How much information do I have to give to WhatsApp?
Your name and phone number.
Is WhatsApp secure?
WhatsApp says that messages are encrypted and not stored on its servers. But WhatsApp is being investigated in Canada and the Netherlands for privacy issues pertaining to the ability to register a person's phone without their permission and intercept messages. The app also uploads all of a user's contacts and requires them to individually block users with whom they do not want contact. Additionally, even the numbers of those who do not use WhatsApp are stored in the app in perpetuity.
For more, check out PCMag's review of WhatsApp for Android and Windows Phone. Also check out the slideshow above, which discusses the next possible billion-dollar startup deal, and PCMag Live in the video below, which talks WhatsApp's $16 billion windfall.
