services and applications ending in 2024

The year of 2024 was marked by the closure of several popular services and applicationsgenerating impact both for users and the technology market. Among the most notable are WordPad, a tool present on computers since the 90s, and Google Podcasts, a reference for audio lovers.

These closures reveal profound changes in the technological landscape, affecting not only the availability of tools, but also the way users interact with digital solutions. Revisiting these farewells is essential to understanding the transformations in the sector and what the future holds for similar technologies.

In this article, we will remember the services and applications that were closed in 2024exploring their stories, reasons for the end and alternatives for users.

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WordPad: Goodbye to a Microsoft classic

Present in Microsoft operating systems since Windows 95, the WordPad was a milestone for simple text editors. The decision to discontinue it in 2024 reflects the evolution of the Windows ecosystem, which now offers more robust alternatives.

Microsoft Word, for example, offers advanced tools for editing and formatting documents, while Notepad remains a lightweight and efficient option for quick notes and simple edits. This combination suits both users looking for complete features and those who prefer minimalist solutions.

The withdrawal of WordPad began with the Windows 11 Beta update and was consolidated in the 24H2 update. For many users, the end of this tool symbolizes the end of an era, but there are still simple and efficient options for similar tasks.

Google Podcasts: The end of Google’s audio platform

Led by Big Tech, the Google Podcasts shuts down globally in June 2024after being launched in 2018 with the aim of popularizing audio consumption. Despite its widespread use, the closure reflects Google’s preference for consolidating services on a single platform, such as YouTube Music, which now integrates podcasts.

To ease the transition, Google has provided detailed instructions on how to migrate subscriptions and playlists to YouTube Music, ensuring listeners don’t miss out on their favorite content. Additionally, integration with podcasts offers a unified environment where users can switch between music and informative audio, providing greater convenience and personalization.

For loyal listeners, the transition required adaptation, but options like Spotify and Pocket Casts continue to be excellent alternatives.

User-created filters on Instagram

User-created augmented reality filters were a popular feature on Instagram, offering everything from makeup effects to interactive games. In August, the platform announced that, leaving only native models.

The decision was attributed to quality and maintenance issues, generating significant impact for creators and influencers who depended on these resources. Despite the loss, Instagram promises to continue innovating in augmented reality.

ICQ: The closure of a messenger icon

Known as the “father” of instant messaging applications, ICQ was closed in June 2024, after almost three decades of history. During its existence, ICQ played a crucial role in the emergence of digital communication, pioneering features such as chat rooms and iconic sound notifications.

For many, it symbolizes the beginning of the era of online connections, leaving a deep cultural mark on the way people interacted and formed virtual communities. The loss of popularity due to the rise of competitors like WhatsApp and Telegram was the main factor. For those who lived through its golden era, ICQ leaves a nostalgic and unforgettable legacy, marked by its unmistakable sound notifications.

Google One VPN: Closure outside Brazil

The service of Google One VPN will be discontinued in 2024but its suspension did not affect Brazilian users, since the feature was never available in the country. Despite being a highly rated feature for increasing online security and privacy, Google decided to focus on other solutions globally. For those looking for additional protection, there are reputable alternatives like NordVPN and ExpressVPN.

TikTok Music: The music streaming that didn’t catch on

Led by ByteDance, owner of TikTok, TikTok Music closed in November 2024. Created with the aim of competing in the market with giants like Spotify, the app faced difficulties in winning over the public, resulting in its end.

This attempt reflects the challenges of standing out in a highly competitive sector. Still, ByteDance’s legacy remains strong, with TikTok remaining one of the biggest social networks in the world.

Artifact: A brief end, but with a new beginning

Developed by the creators of Instagram, Artifact was discontinued in 2024a year after its release. Yahoo’s acquisition and relaunch as an AI-powered platform shows that its core idea still has value. Available only in the United States, the “new Artifact” promises to offer a personalized and modern experience for news consumption.

Conclusion

The closure of these services and applications in 2024 highlights the accelerated pace of technological transformations. While some are missed, others pave the way for even more impactful innovations.

Examples of this include the growth of YouTube Music as a hub for audio and podcasts, replacing Google Podcasts, and the use of solutions like NordVPN and ExpressVPN that gained ground after the closure of Google One’s VPN service. Which one will you miss most? Share your opinion and join the conversation!