Remembering ICQ’s Legacy

Origins of ICQ

In 1996, the Israeli company Mirabilis introduced ICQ, revolutionizing instant messaging (IM) by providing an accessible platform for online communication. At the time, IM was gaining traction, but existing tools like Internet Relay Chat were not user-friendly for the growing number of people joining the online world with Windows 95 and Netscape.

 

ICQ’s Popularity

ICQ quickly gained popularity worldwide, offering users the ability to send messages, files, and even play games. Its innovative features, such as the iconic “uh-oh” sound and the use of unique identification numbers (UINs), made it a favorite among early internet users.

 

The End of an Era

ICQ’s Closure Announcement

Recently, ICQ announced on its website that it will cease operations permanently on June 26, without providing any specific reasons for the shutdown. This announcement has left many nostalgic users saddened by the end of an era in instant messaging.

 

Transition to VK Messenger

As an alternative to ICQ, the announcement suggests VK Messenger, which may serve as a potential successor for those looking for a new messaging platform.