As the world goes frenzy because of the impending arrival of Google plus, we want to remind everyone that Google is not a sure winner. It has lost many battles despite the the armory of cash and talents. Tekedia has compiled where this giant has fought and lost or not winning. Except from video (Youtube) and of course search, the fun is not that straight. Of course Picasa, Blogger, and others are blockbuster acquisitions, yet, do not forget the Gmail.
Gmail is a free, advertising-supported email service provided by Google. Users may access Gmail as secure webmail,as well via POP3 or IMAP protocols. Gmail was launched as an invitation-only beta release on April 1, 2004 and it became available to the general public on February 7, 2007, though still in beta status at that time.The service was upgraded from beta status on July 7, 2009, along with the rest of the Google Apps suite. As of November 2010, it had 193.3 million users monthly. (wikipedia)
Despite what the pundits will tell you Yahoo and Hotmail still rule over Google in Gmail. It may have a customizable interface, offered the first open unlimited storage space, yet, it has not overcome Yahoo Mail or Hotmail. Gmail has 200 million users. That does not take you anywhere when Facebook has 714 million users. Yahoo Mail is the king of free email service, at least for now.
So, in mail, Google is not winning. Tekedia will be giving updates on major Google acquisitions or products in coming days and how they have fared since.
Tekedia Mini-MBA edition 16 (Feb 10 – May 3, 2025) opens registrations; register today for early bird discounts.
Tekedia AI in Business Masterclass opens registrations here.
Join Tekedia Capital Syndicate and invest in Africa’s finest startups here.