1. PS. I Love You, the opportunity to show authenticity to customers.

Learn more about how Sabeer Bhatia and Jack Smith built the prototype of Hotmail in the 1990s and how their message from the bottom of each email had a hyperlinked message that read: ” PS, I love you. Get free email at HoTMaiL.com.”

The Story of Sabeer Bhatia and Jack Smith

Sabeer Bhatia and Jack Smith, two visionary entrepreneurs, made their mark in the digital world by creating the prototype of Hotmail, a revolutionary web-based email service. Their collaboration and innovative approach transformed the way people communicated online in the 1990s. This article delves into the fascinating journey of Bhatia and Smith, exploring the inception of Hotmail, its growth, and the iconic hyperlinked message that became synonymous with the brand.

The Birth of Hotmail

In the rapidly evolving landscape of the internet during the 1990s, email emerged as a vital means of communication. Sabeer Bhatia and Jack Smith recognized the need for a web-based email service that would offer convenience and accessibility to users. They envisioned a platform that could transcend the limitations of traditional email clients and allow people to access their messages from anywhere with an internet connection.

Bhatia and Smith faced numerous challenges while conceptualizing Hotmail. The internet was still in its early stages, and web-based applications were relatively new. However, their determination and belief in the power of their idea fueled their journey.

Building the Hotmail Prototype

To bring their vision to life, Bhatia and Smith assembled a team of talented individuals who shared their passion for innovation. They focused on the technical aspects of building a web-based email service that could handle the immense volume of messages and provide a seamless user experience.

The prototype of Hotmail was a culmination of their efforts. It boasted features that set it apart from other email services at the time, such as a user-friendly interface, ample storage space, and compatibility with various platforms. The team’s attention to detail and dedication ensured that Hotmail would be a game-changer in the world of email.

Launch and Growth of Hotmail

In July 1996, Hotmail was officially launched to the public. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect, as the internet was experiencing a surge in popularity, and the demand for web-based services was on the rise. Hotmail quickly gained traction, and within a short period, it amassed millions of users worldwide.

The unique selling point of Hotmail was its “free” aspect. Unlike other email services that charged a fee, Hotmail provided users with free access to email, making it an appealing choice for individuals and businesses alike. This innovative approach to email service acquisition propelled Hotmail to the forefront of the industry.

The Hyperlinked Message – “PS, I love you. Get free email at HoTMaiL.com.”

One of the defining features of Hotmail was the hyperlinked message that appeared at the bottom of every email sent through the platform. The message, which read “PS, I love you. Get free email at HoTMaiL.com,” was a stroke of genius that helped Hotmail gain viral traction.

The message served two purposes. First, it acted as a form of word-of-mouth marketing. As users forwarded emails to their contacts, the message would be seen by even more people, generating curiosity and driving new sign-ups. Second, the hyperlink embedded in the message led recipients directly to the Hotmail sign-up page, making it incredibly easy for them to create their own Hotmail accounts.

This simple yet effective addition to each email played a significant role in the rapid growth and widespread adoption of Hotmail. It became an iconic part of the brand’s identity and left an indelible mark on the history of email.

Hotmail’s Impact and Acquisition

Hotmail’s success not only transformed the way people communicated but also paved the way for the popularization of web-based email services. It demonstrated the power of providing free, accessible email accounts to the masses and revolutionized the entire industry.

Recognizing the potential of Hotmail, Microsoft acquired the email service in December 1997. The acquisition allowed Hotmail to further expand its user base and benefit from Microsoft’s resources and expertise. The deal was valued at an astounding $400 million, making it one of the most significant acquisitions in tech history at the time.

Sabeer Bhatia and Jack Smith’s Post-Hotmail Journey

Following the acquisition of Hotmail, Sabeer Bhatia and Jack Smith continued to pursue their entrepreneurial endeavors. They ventured into various ventures and contributed to the growth of the technology industry. Additionally, both Bhatia and Smith have been actively involved in philanthropic initiatives, using their success to make a positive impact on society.

Conclusion

The story of Sabeer Bhatia and Jack Smith’s journey from ideation to the creation of Hotmail is a testament to their entrepreneurial spirit and foresight. Their innovative approach to web-based email revolutionized communication in the digital age and left an indelible mark on the history of the internet. Hotmail’s success, fueled by the iconic hyperlinked message, paved the way for the widespread adoption of web-based email services and forever changed the way we interact online.