Despite having dismissed earlier rumours (that have now turned out to be true), WhatsApp is finally selling off to Facebook.
The deal is worth $12 billion in Facebook shares and $4 billion in cash. There’s also an additional $3 billion in restricted stock to WhatsApp founders and employees.
Facebook CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, made the announcement yesterday, explaining in detail the motivation behind the deal. And in case you’re wondering what becomes of your favourite messaging platform, Jan Koum, WhatsApp Co-founder, assures us nothing will change:
WhatsApp will remain autonomous and operate independently. You can continue to enjoy the service for a nominal fee. You can continue to use WhatsApp no matter where in the world you are, or what smartphone you’re using. And you can still count on absolutely no ads interrupting your communication.
Okay Jan, we’re getting you. Just like you told us you wouldn’t sell.
