Well, it’s not a done deal yet, but it’s getting there. Now, without knowing how WhatsApp works, even if Google does acquire WhatsApp, where does that leave Google’s existing platform? They already have Babel, their unified messaging service that they only just figured out and haven’t yet released to the public. Just force Babel on everyone on Android, make a simple iOS client and call it a day. Why WhatsApp?
The number one reason I never used or tired WhatsApp: their name. It makes no sense. None.