Google Images Launches
Google introduces a dedicated image search index after massive user demand. Millions search for Jennifer Lopez’s green Versace dress. Part of the 16 Internet Evolution Facts: The 2001 Edition archive. HistoricallyVerified
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The AOL-Time Warner Merger
AOL and Time Warner announce a $165 billion merger. It is the largest in history and symbolizes the dream of combining “new media” (internet) with “old media” (TV/publishing) for a unified digital future. Part of… Read More »The AOL-Time Warner Merger
The BlackBerry 850
Research In Motion (RIM) releases the first BlackBerry device. Featuring a tiny QWERTY keyboard and “always-on” email, it becomes the ultimate status symbol for professionals and the precursor to the modern smartphone. Part of the 19 Internet… Read More »The BlackBerry 850
The Windows 98 Launch
Microsoft releases Windows 98, which features deep integration with Internet Explorer 4.0. This move makes the web an inseparable part of the PC experience for millions, effectively ending the first “Browser War.” Part of the 17… Read More »The Windows 98 Launch
The Launch of SixDegrees.com
Andrew Weinreich launches SixDegrees.com, often cited as the first true social media site. It allows users to create profiles and list friends, predating Friendster and MySpace by years. Part of the 18 Internet Evolution Facts: The… Read More »The Launch of SixDegrees.com
The Browser Wars Heat Up
Microsoft releases Internet Explorer 3.0, the first browser to seriously challenge Netscape Navigator. It introduces support for CSS and ActiveX, proving that Microsoft is fully committed to dominating the web. Part of the 17 Internet Evolution… Read More »The Browser Wars Heat Up
The Birth of Amazon
Jeff Bezos officially launches Amazon.com from his garage in Bellevue, Washington. Originally billed as “Earth’s Biggest Bookstore,” it sells its first book (Fluid Concepts and Creative Analogies) in July, forever changing retail. Part of the 16 Internet… Read More »The Birth of Amazon
The Launch of TeamSpeak 2
The voice-over-IP software sees massive updates, becoming the absolute communication standard for multiplayer online gaming communities and early esports teams. Part of the 20 Internet Evolution Facts: The 2005 Edition archive. HistoricallyVerified
The Podcasting Revolution Begins
Developer Dave Winer and VJ Adam Curry create “iCatcher,” standardizing RSS feeds to include audio files. The innovation enables automated downloads, birthing the modern podcast industry. Part of the 18 Internet Evolution Facts: The 2004… Read More »The Podcasting Revolution Begins
The Creation of 4chan
Christopher “moot” Poole launches an anonymous English-language imageboard based on Japanese otaku culture. It evolves into the primary incubator for global internet meme culture. Part of the 16 Internet Evolution Facts: The 2003 Edition archive.… Read More »The Creation of 4chan