Timeline of social media

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Social media[1] refers to a variety of digital platforms and applications that enable users to create, share, and exchange content. Its origins can be traced back to the PLATO system in the 1960s, which introduced features such as notes and chat functions. Over the years, the landscape of social media has evolved significantly, with platforms such as Usenet[9], Bulletin board systems, and Internet[5] Relay Chat gaining popularity. The 1990s and 2000s saw the rise of platforms like Myspace[6], Facebook[2], LinkedIn[7], and Snapchat[8] that revolutionized the way people communicate and share information online. In addition to these, a number of social networking sites have emerged, including Instagram[3], Pinterest[4], and VKontakte. The development and widespread use of smartphones have further transformed social media, with numerous mobile apps being developed. The timeline of social media also includes key events and milestones such as acquisitions, shutdowns, controversies, and policy changes. Social media continues to evolve, with new platforms being launched and existing ones introducing new features and policies.

Terms definitions
1. Social media ( Social media ) Social media is a broad term encompassing a variety of digital tools and platforms that facilitate the sharing of information and the creation of virtual communities. Emerging from early systems like PLATO and ARPANET, it has evolved into modern platforms like Facebook and Twitter. These platforms offer unique features that differentiate them from traditional media, including the ability for users to generate content and engage in dialogic communication. They cater to over 100 million users globally and offer different forms of services, such as messaging apps and collaborative content creation platforms. The use of social media has far-reaching impacts on individuals, society, and businesses, influencing everything from marketing practices to political processes. However, it's also associated with ethical concerns, such as the spread of misinformation and potential addiction.
2. Facebook ( Facebook ) Facebook, now known as Meta Platforms, is a major Internet company that started as a social networking platform. Founded by Mark Zuckerberg in 2004, Facebook expanded rapidly from Harvard to other universities and later to the general public, becoming a global phenomenon. It is known for its user-friendly interface and various features such as Groups, the Developer Platform, and Facebook Dating. Despite facing criticism for issues like privacy breaches and the spread of fake news, Facebook has remained a dominant player in the online world. It has made significant strides in the field of technology, including the development of its unique data storage system, the use of PHP for its platform, and the launch of the Hack programming language. In recent years, the company has shifted its focus to the metaverse, a virtual reality space where users can interact with a computer-generated environment.

This page is a timeline of social media. Major launches, milestones, and other major events are included.

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