Facebook

Founded by Mark Zuckerberg and his college roommates in 2004, Facebook initially aimed to connect Harvard students. However, it quickly expanded to other universities and eventually to the general public. This rapid growth was fueled by the platform's simple yet powerful premise: connecting friends and family online. As it evolved, Facebook introduced features like the News Feed, which became central to the user experience, providing a curated stream of updates, photos, and links from friends and followed pages.

With over 2.8 billion monthly active users as of 2023, Facebook's impact on global communication is undeniable. It has democratized content creation, allowing anyone with an account to share their thoughts, moments, and life events. The platform has also become a vital tool for businesses, enabling them to connect with customers through targeted advertising and dedicated Pages.

Despite its success, Facebook has faced its share of challenges and controversies, including concerns over data privacy, the ethical implications of its algorithm, and the role it plays in spreading misinformation. The Cambridge Analytica scandal in 2018, where data from millions of Facebook users was improperly accessed, marked a turning point in public and regulatory scrutiny of the platform's practices.

In an effort to rebrand and signal a shift towards building the "metaverse," Facebook Inc. changed its corporate name to Meta in 2021. This rebranding reflects Zuckerberg's vision for a future where social connections are not just limited to traditional social media platforms but extend into a virtual, immersive digital space.