Introduction
Meta Platforms, Inc., commonly known as Meta, is an American multinational technology powerhouse headquartered in Menlo Park, California. Founded on January 4, 2004, as TheFacebook, Inc., it has undergone major transformations to become one of the most influential companies in the digital era. The company rebranded as Meta in 2021, signaling its long-term vision to lead the next chapter of the internet—what it calls the metaverse.
A Legacy of Innovation and Connectivity
Meta owns and operates some of the most widely used social media platforms and messaging services in the world, including:
- Messenger
- Threads
- Workplace
These platforms serve billions of users worldwide and form the backbone of Meta’s global communication ecosystem.
Business Model: The Power of Advertising
Meta's business success is largely driven by its advertising network, which serves both its own platforms and third-party sites. As of 2023, advertising revenue accounted for a staggering 97.8% of Meta's total income. This model allows businesses of all sizes to target specific audiences with remarkable accuracy, fueling Meta's dominance in the digital ad space.
Financial Strength (2024 Figures):
- Revenue: $164.5 billion
- Operating Income: $69.4 billion
- Net Income: $62.4 billion
- Total Assets: $276.1 billion
- Total Equity: $182.6 billion
Meta's solid financial performance highlights its sustained growth and its capacity to invest in future-forward technologies.
Leadership and Founders
The company was co-founded by a group of Harvard students:
- Mark Zuckerberg (Chairman & CEO)
- Eduardo Saverin
- Andrew McCollum
- Dustin Moskovitz
- Chris Hughes
Zuckerberg remains the central figure, owning 13.6% equity but holding 61.2% voting power, giving him considerable control over the company's direction.
Employees and Divisions
As of March 2025, Meta employs over 76,800 people. Key divisions include:
- Reality Labs – Focused on augmented and virtual reality products
- Mapillary – A service that enhances mapping with street-level imagery
These divisions underscore Meta’s mission to build immersive digital experiences beyond traditional screens.
Global Reach and Future Vision
With a worldwide service area and a long-term focus on the metaverse, Meta aims to create interconnected virtual spaces where users can work, play, and socialize in more immersive ways. Its investment in VR (Oculus), AR, and AI positions it as a leader in the next evolution of digital technology.
Conclusion
Meta Platforms, Inc. is more than just the parent company of Facebook and Instagram—it's a technology innovator redefining how we communicate, advertise, and interact online. With strong financials, a massive user base, and a future-oriented approach, Meta continues to shape the digital landscape on a global scale.