The Rise and Fall of Panoramio

Panoramio started out fine, and Google bought the site in 2007. Until 2012, the upload rate increased continuously - success story! But Google wanted more: a new "awesome" design, a deeper integration into the Google product world - and exciting became "exiting". By the end of 2014, the upload rate was half of what it used to be in peak days. Google decided to close down the site, ignoring the effort the numerous users have put into it. Many have left since then and joined Ipernity (or other alternatives). Now, during the last active days, upload rates are nearly the same as when Google took over - a roller coaster ride for nothing!