Omegle: Why online chat platform is shutting down after 14-year run? Read details
New Delhi, November 9: Omegle, the online chat platform, has officially ceased operations after a 14-year run. Launched in 2009, the free service was renowned for randomly pairing users for anonymous one-on-one conversations, creating a virtual space for strangers to interact.
Why is Omegle shutting down?
Founder Leif K-Brooks attributed the substantial costs of managing Omegle and combating potential misuse as the primary factors leading to the site's closure. In a statement, he expressed, “As much as I wish circumstances were different, the stress and expense of this fight – coupled with the existing stress and expense of operating Omegle, and fighting its misuse – are simply too much. Operating Omegle is no longer sustainable, financially nor psychologically.” The Omegle website now displays a tombstone reading, “Omegle 2009-2023."
I started using Omegle back in 2013 to get chatzy links for glee roleplay. Now a days I use it to roleplay Wolfstar, Jegulus, Hotwings, BkDk, Destiel, Gentlebeard, Ineffable husband and OC Omegaverse. My heart is broken ???? #RipOmegle pic.twitter.com/IKWAxjjKvC — bluexhibiscus (@bluexhibiscus) November 9, 2023
Omegle had faced criticism for its role in online abuse, contributing to its shutdown. K-Brooks acknowledged the platform's vulnerability to attacks and the financial strain of addressing misuse. “There can be no honest accounting of Omegle without acknowledging that some people misused it, including to commit unspeakably heinous crimes,” he noted.
Despite the challenges, K-Brooks emphasised Omegle's positive impact in fostering cross-cultural connections and offering support. He expressed gratitude to users who responsibly utilised the platform. “Over the years, people have used Omegle to explore foreign cultures; to get advice about their lives from impartial third parties; and to help alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation. I've even heard stories of soulmates meeting on Omegle, and getting married. Those are only some of the highlights,” he added.
The hashtag #RIPOmegle is trending on X (formerly Twitter) as users reminisce about their time on the platform.
One user shared, “I started using Omegle back in 2013 to get chatzy links for glee roleplay. Nowadays, I use it to roleplay Wolfstar, Jegulus, Hotwings, BkDk, Destiel, Gentlebeard, Ineffable Husband and OC Omegaverse. My heart is broken #RIPOmegle.”
- With inputs from agencies
