Ask.com is dead after nearly 30 years

ALBAWABA - Search, question, and answer engine Ask.com (formerly known as Ask Jeeves) has bade the internet farewell after nearly 30 years of operation. 

The platform first launched in 1996 and went viral in the early 2000s. While it stood out for its natural Q&A approach, Ask.com was overshadowed by other search engines, such as Google. 

Its shutdown sparked a wide variety of reactions on social media, with many older internet users reminiscing about using it in the late 90s and early 20s. 

A social media user wrote, "Rest in peace my good friend." Another added, "If I knew it was shutting down I would have paid a quick visit and searched for something as a salute."

Ask.com is dead after nearly 30 years

Ask Jeeves has officially shut down on May 1, 2026, ending its 25-year run pic.twitter.com/HWdR3jkLvQ

— internet hall of fame (@InternetH0F) May 2, 2026

As of May 1, 2025, internet users who visit the site are met with a message that reads, "Every great search must come to an end. As IAC continues to sharpen its focus, we have made the decision to discontinue our search business, which includes Ask.com. After 25 years of answering the world's questions, Ask.com officially closed on May 1, 2026." 

The statement adds, "We are deeply grateful to the brilliant engineers, designers, and teams who built and supported Ask over the decades. And to you—the millions of users who turned to us for answers in a rapidly changing world—thank you for your endless curiosity, your loyalty, and your trust."

As closing remarks, the developer concluded, "Jeeves’ spirit endures."