Introduction
Twenty years ago, Facebook launched and shaped an era of the digital age. But as the platform celebrates its 20th anniversary, we take a compact look at the technological influences of Facebook, its successes, and current challenges.
Technological Influence
Facebook has significantly influenced the development of programming languages, web technologies, and open source. From Hiphop and React.js to Yarn and GraphQL, the company has driven innovations and transformed web development.
Small, rapid innovations
In app development, compression technologies, and networking techniques, Facebook has made the internet smaller, faster, and more expansive. React Native revolutionized app development, while proprietary hardware projects within the Open Compute Project increased data center efficiency.
AI and Hardware
Facebook's engagement in AI, with projects like ONNX and PyTorch, demonstrates the desire to make AI more accessible to developers. At the same time, the company has created innovative solutions in the hardware realm through the Open Compute Project.
Challenges and Changes
Despite technological successes, challenges lie ahead. Competitors like TikTok are gaining significance, while traditional media is losing influence. Algorithmically curated content is coming into focus.
Potential Criticisms
The manipulation of users to make them addicted and to display more advertising is a long-standing phenomenon that began as early as 2008 with games like Farmville. However, while the advertising industry benefits from it, the user experience suffers significantly. The once clear environment of such platforms is lost, and it becomes increasingly unclear which posts are actually being displayed.
Trotz dieser Mängel halten sich die Nutzerzahlen stabil, da die Plattformen geschickt auf Emotionen und den Drang nach Kontinuität abzielen. Doch während die Monetarisierung voranschreitet, zahlt die Qualität der Nutzererfahrung den Preis. Die Opazität der Algorithmen und die ständige Verlockung, mehr Zeit in diesen Umgebungen zu verbringen, führen zu einer fragwürdigen Dynamik, bei der die Interessen der Nutzer oft zugunsten kommerzieller Ziele vernachlässigt werden.
Conclusion
The 20-year journey of Facebook is a story full of technological milestones. While the platform faces new challenges, Facebook remains a key player in programming, web development, AI, and hardware. The past showcases innovations that have shaped the digital world, while also providing insight into the questions and opportunities that the future holds.
