Most Popular Instant Messengers (1997-2019)


Timeline history of the world most popular instant messenger apps (desktop software in early years) starting 1997 up to 2019. Measured by number of monthly active users worldwide.

Timeline of the World’s Most Popular Instant Messenger Apps (1997–2019)
Explore the fascinating evolution of instant messaging apps from 1997 to 2019 in this detailed timeline! Starting with desktop pioneers like ICQ and AIM, this video tracks the rise and fall of major messaging platforms based on monthly active users worldwide. Witness how apps evolved with technology, transitioning from desktop software to mobile-first experiences, with giants like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and WeChat reshaping how billions communicate daily across the globe.

Fun Facts & Trivia:

ICQ was one of the very first instant messengers, launching in 1996 and quickly gaining popularity.

WhatsApp surpassed SMS messaging by becoming the most widely used messenger app worldwide.

The rise of smartphones shifted user preference from desktop clients to mobile apps dramatically in the late 2000s.

Keywords: instant messenger apps timeline, popular messaging apps, monthly active users, chat app history, WhatsApp growth, messaging trends.

Source: Data Is Beautiful

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