In case you missed it, here's some big news that I'm sure hardly anyone guessed would happen: It's time to say goodbye to Vine, the mobile app owned by Twitter that became popular after its launch in 2012 for allowing users to record and share video clips of up to six seconds. The reason why Vine is going down is a little ambiguous at this point — in a blog explaining the news on Medium, Vine gave no reason for the shut down — but, as BBC pointed out, this news comes after Twitter announced slowing growth on Thursday.
In a statement to Bustle, Twitter denied to comment on the news that Vine is discontinuing their mobile app, stating that users should refer to the Medium post for all info about the news, and that the company intends "to fully invest in our highest priorities and are de-prioritizing certain initiatives and simplifying how we operate in other areas... the restructuring, which focuses primarily on reorganizing the company’s sales, partnerships, and marketing efforts, is intended to create greater focus and efficiency to enable Twitter’s goal of driving toward GAAP profitability in 2017."
When I heard that the social media app was going down, a little piece of my heart died. Some of the biggest online stars emerged after becoming mobile-famous through Vine, such as LGBTQ activist Jeffrey Marsh. Vine is also known for being a hub for up-and-coming comedians like KC James and other Viners who say or do hilarious things in front of the camera to entertain their audience (all in the span of six seconds, of course).
Clearly, I'm not the only one who's devastated. People turned to Twitter (oh, the irony) to express their dismay over Vine's demise:
After nearly four years of success (and many laughs), it's hard to believe Vine will soon be gone. If you've got a Vine account, though, don't freak out yet. Although the mobile app is going caput, the website will remain alive so that nostalgic Viners can still enjoy the history of all their favorite Vine videos, according to the Medium post. People on Vine will also be notified of any impending changes so they won't be too shocked if something happens.
Needless to say, it's a sad day for social media. RIP, Vine.
Images: Thom/Unsplash
