FACEBOOK INC, 10-K filed on 1/28/2021
Annual Report
v3.20.4
Cover page - USD ($)
$ in Billions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Jan. 22, 2021
Jun. 30, 2020
Entity Information      
Document Type 10-K    
Document Annual Report true    
Document Period End Date Dec. 31, 2020    
Document Transition Report false    
Entity File Number 001-35551    
Entity Registrant Name Facebook, Inc.    
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code DE    
Entity Tax Identification Number 20-1665019    
Entity Address, Address Line One 1601 Willow Road    
Entity Address, City or Town Menlo Park    
Entity Address, State or Province CA    
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code 94025    
City Area Code 650    
Local Phone Number 543-4800    
Title of 12(b) Security Class A Common Stock, $0.000006 par value    
Trading Symbol FB    
Security Exchange Name NASDAQ    
Well-known Seasoned Issuer No    
Entity Voluntary Filers No    
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes    
Entity Interactive Data Current Yes    
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer    
Entity Small Business false    
Entity Emerging Growth Company false    
ICFR Auditor Attestation Flag true    
Entity Shell Company false    
Entity Public Float     $ 563
Documents Incorporated by Reference Portions of the registrant's Proxy Statement for the 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders are incorporated herein by reference in Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K to the extent stated herein. Such proxy statement will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days of the registrant's fiscal year ended December 31, 2020.    
Amendment Flag false    
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2020    
Document Fiscal Period Focus FY    
Entity Central Index Key 0001326801    
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31    
Class A      
Entity Information      
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   2,405,448,410  
Class B Common Stock      
Entity Information      
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   442,221,541  
v3.20.4
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Current assets:    
Cash and cash equivalents $ 17,576 $ 19,079
Marketable securities 44,378 35,776
Accounts receivable, net of allowances of $114 million and $92 million as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively 11,335 9,518
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 2,381 1,852
Total current assets 75,670 66,225
Equity investments 6,234 86
Property and equipment, net 45,633 35,323
Operating lease right-of-use assets, net 9,348 9,460
Intangible assets, net 623 894
Goodwill 19,050 18,715
Other assets 2,758 2,673
Total assets 159,316 133,376
Current liabilities:    
Accounts payable 1,331 1,363
Partners payable 1,093 886
Operating lease liabilities, current 1,023 800
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 11,152 11,735
Deferred revenue and deposits 382 269
Total current liabilities 14,981 15,053
Operating lease liabilities, non-current 9,631 9,524
Other liabilities 6,414 7,745
Total liabilities 31,026 32,322
Commitments and contingencies
Stockholders' equity:    
Common stock, $0.000006 par value; 5,000 million Class A shares authorized, 2,406 million and 2,407 million shares issued and outstanding, as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively; 4,141 million Class B shares authorized, 443 million and 445 million shares issued and outstanding, as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively 0 0
Additional paid-in capital 50,018 45,851
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 927 (489)
Retained earnings 77,345 55,692
Total stockholders' equity 128,290 101,054
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $ 159,316 $ 133,376
v3.20.4
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Current assets:    
Accounts receivable, allowances for doubtful accounts $ (114) $ (92)
Stockholders' equity:    
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) $ 0.000006 $ 0.000006
Class A    
Stockholders' equity:    
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) $ 0.000006  
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares) 5,000,000,000 5,000,000,000
Common stock, shares, issued (in shares) 2,406,000,000 2,407,000,000
Common stock, shares, outstanding (in shares) 2,406,000,000 2,407,000,000
Class B Common Stock    
Stockholders' equity:    
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) $ 0.000006  
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares) 4,141,000,000 4,141,000,000
Common stock, shares, issued (in shares) 443,000,000 445,000,000
Common stock, shares, outstanding (in shares) 443,000,000 445,000,000
v3.20.4
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME - USD ($)
shares in Millions, $ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Revenue $ 85,965 $ 70,697 $ 55,838
Costs and expenses:      
Cost of revenue 16,692 12,770 9,355
Research and development 18,447 13,600 10,273
Marketing and sales 11,591 9,876 7,846
General and administrative 6,564 10,465 3,451
Total costs and expenses 53,294 46,711 30,925
Income from operations 32,671 23,986 24,913
Interest and other income, net 509 826 448
Income before provision for income taxes 33,180 24,812 25,361
Provision for income taxes 4,034 6,327 3,249
Net income 29,146 18,485 22,112
Less: Net income attributable to participating securities 0 0 (1)
Net income attributable to Class A and Class B common stockholders $ 29,146 $ 18,485 $ 22,111
Earnings per share attributable to Class A and Class B common stockholders:      
Basic (in dollars per share) $ 10.22 $ 6.48 $ 7.65
Diluted (in dollars per share) $ 10.09 $ 6.43 $ 7.57
Weighted-average shares used to compute earnings per share attributable to Class A and Class B common stockholders:      
Basic (in shares) 2,851 2,854 2,890
Diluted (in shares) 2,888 2,876 2,921
Share-based compensation expense included in costs and expenses:      
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expense $ 6,536 $ 4,836 $ 4,152
Cost of revenue      
Share-based compensation expense included in costs and expenses:      
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expense 447 377 284
Research and development      
Share-based compensation expense included in costs and expenses:      
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expense 4,918 3,488 3,022
Marketing and sales      
Share-based compensation expense included in costs and expenses:      
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expense 691 569 511
General and administrative      
Share-based compensation expense included in costs and expenses:      
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expense $ 480 $ 402 $ 335
v3.20.4
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]      
Net income $ 29,146 $ 18,485 $ 22,112
Other comprehensive income (loss):      
Change in foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax 1,056 (151) (450)
Change in unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale investments and other, net of tax 360 422 (52)
Comprehensive income $ 30,562 $ 18,756 $ 21,610
v3.20.4
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY - USD ($)
shares in Millions, $ in Millions
Total
Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment
Class A and Class B Common Stock
Additional Paid-In Capital
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment
Retained Earnings
Retained Earnings
Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment
Balance at beginning of period (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2017     2,906          
Balance at beginning of period at Dec. 31, 2017 $ 74,347 $ 141 $ 0 $ 40,584 $ (227) $ (31) $ 33,990 $ 172
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]                
Issuance of common stock for cash upon exercise of stock options (in shares)     2          
Issuance of common stock for cash upon exercise of stock options 15     15        
Issuance of common stock for settlement of RSUs (in shares)     44          
Issuance of common stock for settlement of RSUs 0              
Shares withheld related to net share settlement (in shares)     (19)          
Shares withheld related to net share settlement (3,208)     (1,845)     (1,363)  
Share-based compensation 4,152     4,152        
Share repurchases (in shares)     (79)          
Share repurchases (12,930)           (12,930)  
Other comprehensive income (loss) (502)       (502)      
Net income 22,112           22,112  
Balance at end of period (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2018     2,854          
Balance at end of period at Dec. 31, 2018 84,127   $ 0 42,906 (760)   41,981  
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]                
Issuance of common stock for cash upon exercise of stock options (in shares)     1          
Issuance of common stock for cash upon exercise of stock options 15     15        
Issuance of common stock for settlement of RSUs (in shares)     32          
Issuance of common stock for settlement of RSUs 0              
Shares withheld related to net share settlement (in shares)     (13)          
Shares withheld related to net share settlement (2,581)     (1,906)     (675)  
Share-based compensation 4,836     4,836        
Share repurchases (in shares)     (22)          
Share repurchases (4,099)           (4,099)  
Other comprehensive income (loss) 271       271      
Net income 18,485           18,485  
Balance at end of period (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2019     2,852          
Balance at end of period at Dec. 31, 2019 101,054   $ 0 45,851 (489)   55,692  
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]                
Issuance of common stock for settlement of RSUs (in shares)     38          
Issuance of common stock for settlement of RSUs 0              
Shares withheld related to net share settlement (in shares)     (14)          
Shares withheld related to net share settlement (3,564)     (2,369)     (1,195)  
Share-based compensation 6,536     6,536        
Share repurchases (in shares)     (27)          
Share repurchases (6,298)           (6,298)  
Other comprehensive income (loss) 1,416       1,416      
Net income 29,146           29,146  
Balance at end of period (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2020     2,849          
Balance at end of period at Dec. 31, 2020 $ 128,290   $ 0 $ 50,018 $ 927   $ 77,345  
v3.20.4
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Cash flows from operating activities      
Net income $ 29,146 $ 18,485 $ 22,112
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:      
Depreciation and amortization 6,862 5,741 4,315
Share-based compensation 6,536 4,836 4,152
Deferred income taxes (1,192) (37) 286
Other 118 39 (64)
Changes in assets and liabilities:      
Accounts receivable (1,512) (1,961) (1,892)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 135 47 (690)
Other assets (34) 41 (159)
Accounts payable (17) 113 221
Partners payable 178 348 157
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities (1,054) 7,300 1,417
Deferred revenue and deposits 108 123 53
Other liabilities (527) 1,239 (634)
Net cash provided by operating activities 38,747 36,314 29,274
Cash flows from investing activities      
Purchases of property and equipment (15,115) (15,102) (13,915)
Purchases of marketable securities (33,930) (23,910) (14,656)
Sales of marketable securities 11,787 9,565 12,358
Maturities of marketable securities 13,984 10,152 4,772
Purchases of equity investments (6,361) (61) (25)
Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired, and purchases of intangible assets (388) (508) (137)
Other investing activities (36) 0 0
Net cash used in investing activities (30,059) (19,864) (11,603)
Cash flows from financing activities      
Taxes paid related to net share settlement of equity awards (3,564) (2,337) (3,208)
Repurchases of Class A common stock (6,272) (4,202) (12,879)
Principal payments on finance leases (604) (552) 0
Net change in overdraft in cash pooling entities 24 (223) 500
Other financing activities 124 15 15
Net cash used in financing activities (10,292) (7,299) (15,572)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash 279 4 (179)
Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash (1,325) 9,155 1,920
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at beginning of the period 19,279 10,124 8,204
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at end of the period 17,954 19,279 10,124
Reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash to the consolidated balance sheets      
Total cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash 17,954 10,124 10,124
Supplemental cash flow data      
Cash paid for income taxes 4,229 5,182 3,762
Non-cash investing activities:      
Acquisition of businesses in accrued expenses and other current liabilities and other liabilities 118 0 0
Property and equipment in accounts payable and accrued expenses and other current liabilities $ 2,201 $ 1,887 $ 1,955
v3.20.4
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Organization and Description of Business

Facebook was incorporated in Delaware in July 2004. Our mission is to give people the power to build community and bring the world closer together. We generate substantially all of our revenue from advertising.

Basis of Presentation

We prepared the consolidated financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Facebook, Inc., its subsidiaries where we have controlling financial interests, and any variable interest entities for which we are deemed to be the primary beneficiary. All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated.

Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current year's presentation. None of these reclassifications had a material impact to our consolidated financial statements.

Use of Estimates

Preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires the use of estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. These estimates form the basis for judgments we make about the carrying values of our assets and liabilities, which are not readily apparent from other sources. We base our estimates and judgments on historical information and on various other assumptions that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances. GAAP requires us to make estimates and judgments in several areas, including, but not limited to, those related to revenue recognition, valuation of equity investments, income taxes, loss contingencies, valuation of long-lived assets including goodwill and intangible assets and their associated estimated useful lives, collectibility of accounts receivable, credit losses of available-for-sale (AFS) debt securities, fair value of financial instruments, and leases. These estimates are based on management's knowledge about current events and expectations about actions we may undertake in the future. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates.

The COVID-19 pandemic has created and may continue to create significant uncertainty in macroeconomic conditions, which may cause further business slowdowns or shutdowns, depress demand for our advertising business, and adversely impact our results of operations. During the year ended December 31, 2020, we faced uncertainties around our estimates of revenue collectibility and accounts receivable credit losses. We expect uncertainties around our key accounting estimates to continue to evolve depending on the duration and degree of impact associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Our estimates may change as new events occur and additional information emerges, and such changes are recognized or disclosed in our consolidated financial statements.

Revenue Recognition

Revenue is recognized when control of the promised goods or services is transferred to our customers, in an amount that reflects the consideration we expect to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services.

We determine revenue recognition by applying the following steps:

identification of the contract, or contracts, with a customer;
identification of the performance obligations in the contract;
determination of the transaction price;
allocation of the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract; and
recognition of revenue when, or as, we satisfy a performance obligation.

Revenue excludes sales and usage‑based taxes where it has been determined that we are acting as a pass‑through agent.
Advertising

Advertising revenue is generated by displaying ad products on Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, and third-party affiliated websites or mobile applications. Marketers pay for ad products either directly or through their relationships with advertising agencies or resellers, based on the number of impressions delivered or the number of actions, such as clicks, taken by our users.

We recognize revenue from the display of impression-based ads in the contracted period in which the impressions are delivered. Impressions are considered delivered when an ad is displayed to users. We recognize revenue from the delivery of action-based ads in the period in which a user takes the action the marketer contracted for. In general, we report advertising revenue on a gross basis, since we control the advertising inventory before it is transferred to our customers. Our control is evidenced by our sole ability to monetize the advertising inventory before it is transferred to our customers. For revenue generated from arrangements that involve third-party publishers, we evaluate whether we are the principal or the agent, and for those advertising revenue arrangements where we are the agent, we recognize revenue on a net basis.

We may accept lower consideration than the amount promised per the contract for certain revenue transactions and certain customers may receive cash-based incentives, credits, or refunds, which are accounted for as variable consideration when estimating the amount of revenue to recognize. We estimate these amounts based on the expected amount to be provided to customers and reduce revenue. We believe that there will not be significant changes to our estimates of variable consideration.

Other Revenue

Other revenue consists of revenue from the delivery of Facebook Reality Labs (FRL) consumer hardware devices, net fees we receive from developers using our Payments infrastructure, as well as revenue from various other sources.

Deferred Revenue and Deposits

Deferred revenue mostly consists of billings and payments we receive from marketers in advance of revenue recognition as well as revenue not yet recognized for unspecified software upgrades and updates for various FRL products. Deposits relate to unused balances held on behalf of our users who primarily use these balances to make purchases in games on our platform. Once this balance is utilized by a user, the majority of this amount would then be payable to the developer and the balance would be recognized as revenue. The increase in the deferred revenue balance for the year ended December 31, 2020 was driven by cash payments from customers in advance of satisfying our performance obligations in FRL sales and advertising revenue, offset by revenue recognized that was included in the deferred revenue balance at the beginning of the period.

Our payment terms vary by the products or services offered. The term between billings and when payment is due is not significant. For certain products or services and customer types, we require payment before the products or services are delivered to the customer.

Practical Expedients and Exemptions

We generally expense sales commissions when incurred because the amortization period would have been one year or less. These costs are recorded within marketing and sales on our consolidated statements of income.

We do not disclose the value of unsatisfied performance obligations for (i) contracts with an original expected length of one year or less and (ii) contracts for which we recognize revenue at the amount to which we have the right to invoice for services performed.

Cost of Revenue

Our cost of revenue consists primarily of expenses associated with the delivery and distribution of our products. These include expenses related to the operation of our data centers and technical infrastructure, such as facility and server equipment depreciation, salaries, benefits, and share-based compensation for employees on our operations teams, and energy and bandwidth costs. Cost of revenue also includes costs associated with partner arrangements, including traffic acquisition
and content costs, credit card and other transaction fees related to processing customer transactions, and cost of consumer hardware devices sold.

Content Costs

Our content costs are mostly related to payments to content providers from whom we license video and music to increase engagement on the platform. For licensed video, we expense the cost per title when the title is accepted and available for viewing if the capitalization criteria are not met. Video content costs that meet the criteria for capitalization were not material to date.

For licensed music, we expense the license fees over the contractual license period. Expensed content costs are included in cost of revenue on the consolidated statements of income.

Software Development Costs

Software development costs, including costs to develop software products or the software component of products to be marketed or sold to external users, are expensed before the software or technology reach technological feasibility, which is typically reached shortly before the release of such products.

Software development costs also include costs to develop software to be used solely to meet internal needs and applications used to deliver our services. These software development costs meet the criteria for capitalization once the preliminary project stage is complete and it is probable that the project will be completed and the software will be used to perform the function intended.

Development costs that meet the criteria for capitalization were not material to date.

Income Taxes

We are subject to income taxes in the United States and numerous foreign jurisdictions. Significant judgment is required in determining our provision for income taxes and income tax assets and liabilities, including evaluating uncertainties in the application of accounting principles and complex tax laws.

We record a provision for income taxes for the anticipated tax consequences of the reported results of operations using the asset and liability method. Under this method, we recognize deferred income tax assets and liabilities for the expected future consequences of temporary differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities, as well as for loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using the tax rates that are expected to apply to taxable income for the years in which those tax assets and liabilities are expected to be realized or settled. We recognize the deferred income tax effects of a change in tax rates in the period of the enactment.

We record a valuation allowance to reduce our deferred tax assets to the net amount that we believe is more likely than not to be realized. We consider all available evidence, both positive and negative, including historical levels of income, expectations and risks associated with estimates of future taxable income and ongoing tax planning strategies in assessing the need for a valuation allowance.

We recognize tax benefits from uncertain tax positions only if we believe that it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities based on the technical merits of the position. These uncertain tax positions include our estimates for transfer pricing that have been developed based upon analyses of appropriate arms-length prices. Similarly, our estimates related to uncertain tax positions concerning research tax credits are based on an assessment of whether our available documentation corroborating the nature of our activities supporting the tax credits will be sufficient. Although we believe that we have adequately reserved for our uncertain tax positions (including net interest and penalties), we can provide no assurance that the final tax outcome of these matters will not be materially different. We make adjustments to these reserves in accordance with the income tax accounting guidance when facts and circumstances change, such as the closing of a tax audit or the refinement of an estimate. To the extent that the final tax outcome of these matters is different from the amounts recorded, such differences will affect the provision for income taxes in the period in which such determination is made, and could have a material impact on our financial condition and operating results.
Advertising Expense

Advertising costs are expensed when incurred and are included in marketing and sales expenses on the consolidated statements of income. We incurred advertising expenses of $2.26 billion, $1.57 billion, and $1.10 billion for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, respectively.

Cash and Cash Equivalents, Marketable Securities, and Restricted Cash

Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on deposit with banks and highly liquid investments with maturities of 90 days or less from the date of purchase.

We hold investments in marketable securities, consisting of U.S. government securities, U.S. government agency securities, and investment grade corporate debt securities. We classify our marketable securities as available-for-sale (AFS) investments in our current assets because they represent investments of cash available for current operations. Our AFS investments are carried at estimated fair value with any unrealized gains and losses, net of taxes, included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in stockholders' equity. AFS debt securities with an amortized cost basis in excess of estimated fair value are assessed to determine what amount of that difference, if any, is caused by expected credit losses. Allowance for credit losses on AFS debt securities are recognized as a charge in interest and other income (expense), net on our consolidated statements of income, and any remaining unrealized losses, net of taxes, are included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in stockholders' equity. The amount of credit losses recorded for the year ended December 31, 2020 was not material. There was no impairment charge for any unrealized losses in 2019 and 2018. We determine realized gains or losses on sale of marketable securities on a specific identification method and record such gains or losses as interest and other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of income.

We also maintain a multi-currency notional cash pool for our participating entities with a third-party bank provider. Actual cash balances are not physically converted and are not commingled between participating legal entities. We classify the overdraft balances within accrued expenses and other current liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.

We classify certain restricted cash balances within prepaid expenses and other current assets and other assets on the consolidated balance sheets based upon the term of the remaining restrictions.

Equity Investments

Our equity investments are investments in equity securities of privately-held companies without readily determinable market values. We elected to account for most of our equity investments using the measurement alternative, which is cost, less any impairment, adjusted for changes in fair value resulting from observable transactions for identical or similar investments of the same issuer. The change in carrying value, if any, is recognized in interest and other income (expense), net on our consolidated statements of income. We periodically review our equity investments for impairment. If indicators exist and the estimated fair value of an investment is below the carrying amount, we will write down the investment to fair value. In addition, we also held equity investments accounted for under the equity method which were immaterial as of December 31, 2020 and 2019. Equity investments had a carrying value of $6.23 billion and $86 million as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. There was no material impairment in 2020, 2019 and 2018.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

We apply fair value accounting for all financial assets and liabilities and non-financial assets and liabilities that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis. We define fair value as the price that would be received from selling an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. When determining the fair value measurements for assets and liabilities, which are required to be recorded at fair value, we consider the principal or most advantageous market in which we would transact and the market-based risk measurements or assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, such as risks inherent in valuation techniques, transfer restrictions and credit risk. Fair value is estimated by applying the following hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value into three levels and bases the categorization within the hierarchy upon the lowest level of input that is available and significant to the fair value measurement:

Level 1- Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
Level 2- Observable inputs other than quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in inactive markets, or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.

Level 3- Inputs that are generally unobservable and typically reflect management's estimate of assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability.

Our valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of cash equivalents and marketable debt securities were derived from quoted market prices or alternative pricing sources and models utilizing observable market inputs.

Accounts Receivable and Allowances

Accounts receivable are recorded and carried at the original invoiced amount less an allowance for any potential uncollectible amounts. We make estimates of expected credit and collectibility trends for the allowance for credit losses and allowance for unbilled receivables based upon our assessment of various factors, including historical experience, the age of the accounts receivable balances, credit quality of our customers, current economic conditions, reasonable and supportable forecasts of future economic conditions, and other factors that may affect our ability to collect from customers. Expected credit losses are recorded as general and administrative expenses on our consolidated statements of income. As of December 31, 2020 and 2019, our accounts receivable, net were $11.33 billion and $9.52 billion, respectively, and the allowances of accounts receivable were immaterial.

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment, which includes amounts recorded under finance leases, are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets or the remaining lease term, whichever is shorter.

The estimated useful lives of property and equipment are described below:
Property and Equipment 
Useful Life 
Network equipment
Three to 20 years
Buildings
Three to 30 years
Computer software, office equipment and other
Two to five years
Finance lease right-of-use assets
Three to 20 years
Leasehold improvementsLesser of estimated useful life or remaining lease term
 

The useful lives of our property and equipment are determined by management when those assets are initially recognized and are routinely reviewed for the remaining estimated useful lives. Our current estimate of useful lives represents the best estimate of the useful lives based on current facts and circumstances, but may differ from the actual useful lives due to changes in future circumstances such as changes to our business operations, changes in the planned use of assets, and technological advancements. When we change the estimated useful life assumption for any asset, the remaining carrying amount of the asset is accounted for prospectively and depreciated or amortized over the revised estimated useful life. Historically changes in useful lives have not resulted in material changes to our depreciation and amortization expense.

Land and assets held within construction in progress are not depreciated. Construction in progress is related to the construction or development of property and equipment that have not yet been placed in service for their intended use.

The cost of maintenance and repairs is expensed as incurred. When assets are retired or otherwise disposed of, the cost and related accumulated depreciation are removed from their respective accounts, and any gain or loss on such sale or disposal is reflected in income from operations.
Lease Obligations

We have operating leases comprised of certain offices, data center, land, colocations, and equipment leases. We also have finance leases for certain network equipment. We determine if an arrangement is a lease at inception. Most of our leases contain lease and non-lease components. Non-lease components include fixed payments for maintenance, utilities, real estate taxes, and management fees. We combine fixed lease and non-lease components and account for them as a single lease component. Our lease agreements may contain variable costs such as contingent rent escalations, common area maintenance, insurance, real estate taxes or other costs. Such variable lease costs are expensed as incurred on the consolidated statements of income. For certain colocation and equipment leases, we apply a portfolio approach to effectively account for the operating lease right-of-use (ROU) assets and lease liabilities.

For leases that have greater than 12-month lease term, ROU assets and lease liabilities are recognized on the consolidated balance sheet at commencement date based on the present value of remaining fixed lease payments. We consider only payments that are fixed and determinable at the time of commencement.

Our lease terms may include options to extend or terminate the lease when it is reasonably certain that we will exercise such options. When determining the probability of exercising such options, we consider contract-based, asset-based, entity-based, and market-based factors.

As most of our leases do not provide an implicit rate, we use our incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at commencement date in determining the present value of lease payments. Our incremental borrowing rate is a hypothetical rate based on our understanding of what our credit rating would be in a similar economic environment.

Operating leases are included in operating lease ROU assets, operating lease liabilities, current and operating lease liabilities, non-current on our consolidated balance sheets. Finance leases are included in property and equipment, net, accrued expenses and other current liabilities, and other liabilities on our consolidated balance sheets.

Results and disclosure requirements for reporting periods beginning after January 1, 2019 are presented under Topic 842, while prior period amounts have not been adjusted and continue to be reported under Topic 840.

Loss Contingencies

We are involved in legal proceedings, claims, and regulatory, tax or government inquiries and investigations that arise in the ordinary course of business. Certain of these matters include speculative claims for substantial or indeterminate amounts of damages. Additionally, we are required to comply with various legal and regulatory obligations around the world. The requirements for complying with these obligations may be uncertain and subject to interpretation and enforcement by regulatory and other authorities, and any failure to comply with such obligations could eventually lead to asserted legal or regulatory action. With respect to these matters, asserted and unasserted, we evaluate the developments on a regular basis and accrue a liability when we believe that it is both probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount can be reasonably estimated. If we determine there is a reasonable possibility that we may incur a loss and the loss or range of loss can be estimated, we disclose the possible loss in the notes to the consolidated financial statements to the extent material.

We review the developments in our contingencies that could affect the amount of the provisions that has been previously recorded, and the matters and related possible losses disclosed. We make adjustments to our provisions and changes to our disclosures accordingly to reflect the impact of negotiations, settlements, rulings, advice of legal counsel, and updated information. Significant judgment is required to determine the probability of loss and the estimated amount of loss, including when and if the probability and estimate has changed for asserted and unasserted matters.

Business Combinations

We allocate the fair value of purchase consideration to the tangible assets acquired, liabilities assumed and intangible assets acquired based on their estimated fair values. The excess of the fair value of purchase consideration over the fair values of these identifiable assets and liabilities is recorded as goodwill. Such valuations require management to make significant estimates and assumptions, especially with respect to intangible assets. Significant estimates in valuing certain intangible assets include, but are not limited to, estimated replacement costs and future expected cash flows from acquired users,
acquired technology, acquired patents, and trade names from a market participant perspective, useful lives and discount rates. Management's estimates of fair value are based upon assumptions believed to be reasonable, but which are inherently uncertain and unpredictable and, as a result, actual results may differ from estimates. Allocation of purchase consideration to identifiable assets and liabilities affects Company amortization expense, as acquired finite-lived intangible assets are amortized over the useful life, whereas any indefinite lived intangible assets, including goodwill, are not amortized. During the measurement period, which is not to exceed one year from the acquisition date, we record adjustments to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, with the corresponding offset to goodwill. Upon the conclusion of the measurement period, any subsequent adjustments are recorded to earnings.

Long-lived Assets Including Goodwill and Other Acquired Intangibles Assets

We evaluate the recoverability of property and equipment and acquired finite-lived intangible assets for possible impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable. The evaluation is performed at the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are largely independent of the cash flows of other assets and liabilities. Recoverability of these assets is measured by a comparison of the carrying amounts to the future undiscounted cash flows the assets are expected to generate from the use and eventual disposition. If such review indicates that the carrying amount of property and equipment and intangible assets is not recoverable, the carrying amount of such assets is reduced to fair value. We have not recorded any significant impairment charges during the years presented.

We review goodwill for impairment at least annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances would more likely than not reduce the fair value of our single reporting unit below its carrying value. As of December 31, 2020, no impairment of goodwill has been identified.

Acquired finite-lived intangible assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets. We routinely review the remaining estimated useful lives of property and equipment and finite-lived intangible assets. If we change the estimated useful life assumption for any asset, the remaining unamortized balance is amortized or depreciated over the revised estimated useful life.

Foreign Currency

Generally, the functional currency of our international subsidiaries is the local currency. We translate the financial statements of these subsidiaries to U.S. dollars using month-end rates of exchange for assets and liabilities, and average rates of exchange for revenue, costs, and expenses. Translation gains and losses are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) as a component of stockholders' equity. As of December 31, 2020 we had a cumulative translation gain, net of tax of $439 million and as of December 31, 2019, we had a cumulative translation loss, net of tax of $617 million. Net losses resulting from foreign exchange transactions were $129 million, $105 million, and $213 million for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, respectively. These losses were recorded as interest and other income (expense), net on our consolidated statements of income.

Credit Risk and Concentration

Our financial instruments that are potentially subject to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash, marketable securities, and accounts receivable. The majority of cash equivalents consists of money market funds, that primarily invest in U.S. government and agency securities. Marketable securities consist of investments in U.S. government securities, U.S. government agency securities, and investment grade corporate debt securities. Our investment portfolio in corporate debt securities is highly liquid and diversified among individual issuers. The amount of credit losses recorded for the year ended December 31, 2020 was not material.

Accounts receivable are typically unsecured and are derived from revenue earned from customers across different industries and countries. We generated 42% of our revenue for the year ended December 31, 2020 and 43% of our revenue for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 from marketers and developers based in the United States, with the majority of revenue outside of the United States coming from customers located in western Europe, China, Canada, Australia, Japan, Vietnam and Brazil.

We perform ongoing credit evaluations of our customers and generally do not require collateral. We maintain an allowance for estimated credit losses and bad debt expense on these losses was not material during the years ended
December 31, 2020, 2019, or 2018. In the event that accounts receivable collection cycles deteriorate, our operating results and financial position could be adversely affected.

No customer represented 10% or more of total revenue during the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018.

Segments

Our chief operating decision-maker is our Chief Executive Officer who makes resource allocation decisions and assesses performance based on financial information presented on a consolidated basis. There are no segment managers who are held accountable by the chief operating decision-maker, or anyone else, for operations, operating results, and planning for levels or components below the consolidated unit level. Accordingly, we have determined that we have a single reportable segment and operating segment structure.

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

Fair Value Measurements

On January 1, 2020, we adopted Accounting Standards Update No. 2018-13, Changes to Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurements (Topic 820), which improved the effectiveness of disclosure requirements for recurring and nonrecurring fair value measurements. The standard removes, modifies, and adds certain disclosure requirements. The adoption of this new standard did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

Credit Losses

On January 1, 2020, we adopted Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments, using the modified retrospective transition method. Upon adoption, we changed our impairment model to utilize a current expected credit losses (CECL) model in place of the incurred loss methodology for financial instruments measured at amortized cost, including our accounts receivable. In addition, we modified our impairment model for AFS debt securities and to discontinue using the concept of "other than temporary" impairment on AFS debt securities. CECL estimates on accounts receivable are recorded as general and administrative expenses on our consolidated statements of income. Allowance for credit losses on AFS debt securities are recognized as a charge in interest and other income (expense), net on our consolidated statements of income. The cumulative effect adjustment from adoption was immaterial to our consolidated financial statements. We continue to monitor the financial implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on expected credit losses.
Income Taxes
On October 1, 2020, we early adopted Accounting Standard Update No. 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes (ASU 2019-12), which simplifies the accounting for income taxes. This guidance was effective beginning January 1, 2021, with early adoption permitted. The adoption of this new standard did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted
In January 2020, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2020-01, Investments—Equity Securities (Topic 321), Investments—Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323), and Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815) (ASU 2020-01), which clarifies the interaction of the accounting for equity securities under Topic 321, the accounting for equity method investments in Topic 323, and the accounting for certain forward contracts and purchased options in Topic 815. We will adopt the new standard effective January 1, 2021 and do not expect the adoption of this guidance to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
In August 2020, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2020-06, Debt—Debt with Conversion and Other Options (Subtopic 470-20) and Derivatives and Hedging—Contracts in Entity's Own Equity (Subtopic 815-40): Accounting for Convertible Instruments and Contracts in an Entity’s Own Equity (ASU 2020-06), which simplifies the accounting for convertible instruments by reducing the number of accounting models available for convertible debt instruments. This guidance also eliminates the treasury stock method to calculate diluted earnings per share for convertible instruments and requires the use of the if-converted method. This guidance will be effective for us in the first quarter of 2022 on a full
or modified retrospective basis, with early adoption permitted. We do not expect the adoption of this guidance to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
v3.20.4
Revenue
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]  
Revenue Revenue
Revenue disaggregated by revenue source consists of the following (in millions):
Year Ended December 31, 
202020192018
Advertising$84,169 $69,655 $55,013 
Other revenue1,796 1,042 825 
Total revenue$85,965 $70,697 $55,838 

Revenue disaggregated by geography, based on the billing address of our customers, consists of the following (in millions):
 Year Ended December 31, 
 202020192018
Revenue:   
United States and Canada(1)
$38,433 $32,206 $25,727 
Europe(2)
20,349 16,826 13,631 
Asia-Pacific19,848 15,406 11,733 
Rest of World(2)
7,335 6,259 4,747 
Total revenue$85,965 $70,697 $55,838 
_________________________
(1)United States revenue was $36.25 billion, $30.23 billion, and $24.10 billion for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, respectively.
(2)Europe includes Russia and Turkey, and Rest of World includes Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East.

Deferred revenue and deposits consists of the following (in millions):
December 31,
 20202019
Deferred revenue$335 $234 
Deposits47 35 
Total deferred revenue and deposits$382 $269 
v3.20.4
Earnings per Share
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]  
Earnings per Share Earnings per Share
We compute earnings per share (EPS) of Class A and Class B common stock using the two-class method required for participating securities. We consider restricted stock awards to be participating securities because holders of such shares have non-forfeitable dividend rights in the event of our declaration of a dividend for common shares.

Undistributed earnings allocated to participating securities are subtracted from net income in determining net income attributable to common stockholders. Basic EPS is computed by dividing net income attributable to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of shares of our Class A and Class B common stock outstanding, adjusted for outstanding shares that are subject to repurchase.

For the calculation of diluted EPS, net income attributable to common stockholders for basic EPS is adjusted by the effect of dilutive securities, including awards under our equity compensation plans. In 2018, the calculation of diluted EPS also included the effect of inducement awards under separate non-plan restricted stock unit (RSU) award agreements.
In addition, the computation of the diluted EPS of Class A common stock assumes the conversion of our Class B common stock to Class A common stock, while the diluted EPS of Class B common stock does not assume the conversion of those shares to Class A common stock. Diluted EPS attributable to common stockholders is computed by dividing the resulting net income attributable to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of fully diluted common shares outstanding.

RSUs with anti-dilutive effect were excluded from the EPS calculation and they were not material for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018.

Basic and diluted EPS are the same for each class of common stock because they are entitled to the same liquidation and dividend rights.

The numerators and denominators of the basic and diluted EPS computations for our common stock are calculated as follows (in millions, except per share amounts):
 Year Ended December 31,
 202020192018
 Class
A
Class
B
Class
A
Class
B
Class
A
Class
B 
Basic EPS:      
Numerator      
Net income$24,607 $4,539 $15,569 $2,916 $18,411 $3,701 
Less: Net income attributable to participating securities— — — — (1)— 
Net income attributable to common stockholders$24,607 $4,539 $15,569 $2,916 $18,410 $3,701 
Denominator      
Weighted-average shares outstanding2,407 444 2,404 450 2,406 484 
Basic EPS$10.22 $10.22 $6.48 $6.48 $7.65 $7.65 
Diluted EPS:    
Numerator      
Net income attributable to common stockholders$24,607 $4,539 $15,569 $2,916 $18,410 $3,701 
Reallocation of net income attributable to participating securities— — — — — 
Reallocation of net income as a result of conversion of Class B to Class A common stock4,539 — 2,916 — 3,701 — 
Reallocation of net income to Class B common stock— (58)— (18)— (16)
Net income for diluted EPS$29,146 $4,481 $18,485 $2,898 $22,112 $3,685 
Denominator      
Number of shares used for basic EPS computation2,407 444 2,404 450 2,406 484 
Conversion of Class B to Class A common stock444 — 450 — 484 — 
Weighted-average effect of dilutive RSUs and employee stock options37 — 22 31 
Number of shares used for diluted EPS computation2,888 444 2,876 451 2,921 487 
Diluted EPS$10.09 $10.09 $6.43 $6.43 $7.57 $7.57 
v3.20.4
Cash and Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Cash and Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities [Abstract]  
Cash and Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities Cash and Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities
The following table sets forth the cash and cash equivalents and marketable securities (in millions):
December 31,
20202019
Cash and cash equivalents:
Cash$6,488 $4,735 
Money market funds9,755 12,787 
U.S. government securities1,016 815 
U.S. government agency securities— 444 
Certificate of deposits and time deposits305 217 
Corporate debt securities12 81 
Total cash and cash equivalents17,576 19,079 
Marketable securities:
U.S. government securities20,921 18,679 
U.S. government agency securities11,698 6,712 
Corporate debt securities11,759 10,385 
Total marketable securities44,378 35,776 
Total cash and cash equivalents and marketable securities$61,954 $54,855 

The gross unrealized gains on our marketable securities were $641 million and $205 million as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The gross unrealized losses on our marketable securities were not material as of December 31, 2020 and 2019. The allowance for credit losses was not material as of December 31, 2020.

The following table classifies our marketable securities by contractual maturities (in millions):
December 31,
20202019
Due in one year$12,826 $12,803 
Due after one year to five years31,552 22,973 
Total$44,378 $35,776 
v3.20.4
Equity Investments
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]  
Equity Investments Equity Investments
Our equity investments are investments in equity securities of privately-held companies without readily determinable market values. On July 7, 2020, we completed our equity investment in Jio Platforms Limited (Jio), a subsidiary of Reliance Industries Limited, for $5.82 billion. There was no material impairment for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 or 2018.

The changes in the carrying value of equity investments for the year ended December 31, 2019 were not material. The changes in the carrying value of equity investments for the year ended December 31, 2020 were as follows (in millions):
Balance as of December 31, 2019$86 
Jio 5,824 
Other investments323 
Adjustments
Balance as of December 31, 2020$6,234 
v3.20.4
Fair Value Measurement
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]  
Fair Value Measurement Fair Value Measurement
The following table summarizes our assets measured at fair value and the classification by level of input within the fair value hierarchy (in millions): 
  Fair Value Measurement at Reporting Date Using
Description December 31,
2020
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets
(Level 1)
Significant Other Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
Significant Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)
Cash equivalents:    
Money market funds$9,755 $9,755 $— $— 
U.S. government securities1,016 1,016 — — 
Certificate of deposits and time deposits305 — 305 — 
Corporate debt securities12 — 12 — 
Marketable securities:    
U.S. government securities20,921 20,921 — — 
U.S. government agency securities11,698 11,698 — — 
Corporate debt securities11,759 — 11,759 — 
Total cash equivalents and marketable securities$55,466 $43,390 $12,076 $— 
  Fair Value Measurement at Reporting Date Using
DescriptionDecember 31,
2019
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets
(Level 1)
Significant Other Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
Significant Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3) 
Cash equivalents:    
Money market funds$12,787 $12,787 $— $— 
U.S. government securities815 815 — — 
U.S. government agency securities444 444 — — 
Certificate of deposits and time deposits217 — 217 — 
Corporate debt securities81 — 81 — 
Marketable securities:
U.S. government securities18,679 18,679 — — 
U.S. government agency securities6,712 6,712 — — 
Corporate debt securities10,385 — 10,385 — 
Total cash equivalents and marketable securities$50,120 $39,437 $10,683 $— 

We classify our cash equivalents and marketable securities within Level 1 or Level 2 because we use quoted market prices or alternative pricing sources and models utilizing market observable inputs to determine their fair value.

Beginning in 2020, we had other assets and liabilities classified within Level 3 because factors used to develop the estimated fair value are unobservable inputs that are not supported by market activity. The aggregate absolute value of these Level 3 assets and liabilities was not material to our consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2020.

On July 7, 2020, we completed our equity investment in Jio and noted observable transactions in similar securities subsequent to the date of our investment. Based on our assessment, we concluded no change in fair value from the initial carrying value of $5.82 billion was required as a result of these observable transactions. Had there been a change in the fair value, our investment in Jio would be classified within Level 3. For information regarding our investment in Jio, see Note 5 — Equity Investments.
v3.20.4
Property and Equipment
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]  
Property and Equipment Property and Equipment
Property and equipment, net consists of the following (in millions):
 December 31,
 20202019
Land$1,326 $1,097 
Buildings17,360 11,226 
Leasehold improvements4,321 3,112 
Network equipment22,003 17,004 
Computer software, office equipment and other2,458 1,813 
Finance lease right-of-use assets2,295 1,635 
Construction in progress11,288 10,099 
Total61,051 45,986 
Less: Accumulated depreciation(15,418)(10,663)
Property and equipment, net$45,633 $35,323 
 
Depreciation expense on property and equipment were $6.39 billion, $5.18 billion, and $3.68 billion for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, respectively. The majority of the property and equipment depreciation expense was from network equipment depreciation of $4.58 billion, $3.83 billion, and $2.94 billion for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, respectively. Construction in progress includes costs mostly related to construction of data centers, network equipment infrastructure to support our data centers around the world, and office buildings.
v3.20.4
Leases
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Leases [Abstract]  
Leases Leases
We have entered into various non-cancelable operating lease agreements for certain of our offices, data centers, land, colocations, and equipment. We have also entered into various non-cancelable finance lease agreements for certain network equipment. Our leases have original lease periods expiring between 2021 and 2093. Many leases include one or more options to renew. We do not assume renewals in our determination of the lease term unless the renewals are deemed to be reasonably assured. Our lease agreements generally do not contain any material residual value guarantees or material restrictive covenants.
The components of lease costs for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 are as follows (in millions):
December 31,
20202019
Finance lease cost
     Amortization of right-of-use assets$259 $195 
     Interest14 12 
Operating lease cost1,391 1,139 
Variable lease cost and other, net269 160 
       Total lease cost$1,933 $1,506 
Operating lease expense was $629 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 under Topic 840.
Supplemental balance sheet information related to leases is as follows:
December 31,
20202019
Weighted-average remaining lease term
     Operating leases12.2 years13.0 years
     Finance leases14.9 years15.3 years
Weighted-average discount rate
     Operating leases3.1 %3.2 %
     Finance leases2.9 %3.1 %

The following is a schedule, by years, of maturities of lease liabilities as of December 31, 2020 (in millions):
Operating LeasesFinance Leases
2021$1,300 $68 
20221,394 51 
20231,266 41 
20241,163 41 
20251,001 41 
Thereafter7,206 401 
Total undiscounted cash flows13,330 643 
Less: Imputed interest(2,676)(120)
Present value of lease liabilities$10,654 $523 
Lease liabilities, current$1,023 $54 
Lease liabilities, non-current9,631 469 
Present value of lease liabilities$10,654 $523 

The table above does not include lease payments that were not fixed at commencement or lease modification. As of December 31, 2020, we have additional operating and finance leases, that have not yet commenced, with lease obligations of approximately $7.41 billion and $443 million, respectively, mostly for offices, data centers and network equipment. These operating and finance leases will commence between 2021 and 2025 with lease terms of greater than one year to 30 years.

Supplemental cash flow information related to leases for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 are as follows (in millions):
December 31,
20202019
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:
     Operating cash flows for operating leases$1,208 $902 
     Operating cash flows for finance leases$14 $12 
     Financing cash flows for finance leases$604 $552 
Lease liabilities arising from obtaining right-of-use assets:
     Operating leases$1,158 $5,081 
     Finance leases$121 $193 
Leases Leases
We have entered into various non-cancelable operating lease agreements for certain of our offices, data centers, land, colocations, and equipment. We have also entered into various non-cancelable finance lease agreements for certain network equipment. Our leases have original lease periods expiring between 2021 and 2093. Many leases include one or more options to renew. We do not assume renewals in our determination of the lease term unless the renewals are deemed to be reasonably assured. Our lease agreements generally do not contain any material residual value guarantees or material restrictive covenants.
The components of lease costs for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 are as follows (in millions):
December 31,
20202019
Finance lease cost
     Amortization of right-of-use assets$259 $195 
     Interest14 12 
Operating lease cost1,391 1,139 
Variable lease cost and other, net269 160 
       Total lease cost$1,933 $1,506 
Operating lease expense was $629 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 under Topic 840.
Supplemental balance sheet information related to leases is as follows:
December 31,
20202019
Weighted-average remaining lease term
     Operating leases12.2 years13.0 years
     Finance leases14.9 years15.3 years
Weighted-average discount rate
     Operating leases3.1 %3.2 %
     Finance leases2.9 %3.1 %

The following is a schedule, by years, of maturities of lease liabilities as of December 31, 2020 (in millions):
Operating LeasesFinance Leases
2021$1,300 $68 
20221,394 51 
20231,266 41 
20241,163 41 
20251,001 41 
Thereafter7,206 401 
Total undiscounted cash flows13,330 643 
Less: Imputed interest(2,676)(120)
Present value of lease liabilities$10,654 $523 
Lease liabilities, current$1,023 $54 
Lease liabilities, non-current9,631 469 
Present value of lease liabilities$10,654 $523 

The table above does not include lease payments that were not fixed at commencement or lease modification. As of December 31, 2020, we have additional operating and finance leases, that have not yet commenced, with lease obligations of approximately $7.41 billion and $443 million, respectively, mostly for offices, data centers and network equipment. These operating and finance leases will commence between 2021 and 2025 with lease terms of greater than one year to 30 years.

Supplemental cash flow information related to leases for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 are as follows (in millions):
December 31,
20202019
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:
     Operating cash flows for operating leases$1,208 $902 
     Operating cash flows for finance leases$14 $12 
     Financing cash flows for finance leases$604 $552 
Lease liabilities arising from obtaining right-of-use assets:
     Operating leases$1,158 $5,081 
     Finance leases$121 $193 
v3.20.4
Goodwill and Intangible Assets
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]  
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets
During the year ended December 31, 2020, we purchased certain intangible assets and completed several business acquisitions that were not material to our consolidated financial statements, either individually or in the aggregate. Accordingly, pro forma historical results of operations related to these business acquisitions during the year ended December 31, 2020 have not been presented. We have included the financial results of these business acquisitions in our consolidated financial statements from their respective dates of acquisition.

Goodwill generated from all business acquisitions completed was primarily attributable to expected synergies from future growth and potential monetization opportunities. The amount of goodwill generated that was deductible for tax purposes was not material.

The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 are as follows (in millions):
Balance as of December 31, 2018$18,301 
Goodwill acquired408 
Effect of currency translation adjustment
Balance as of December 31, 201918,715 
Goodwill acquired322 
Effect of currency translation adjustment13 
Balance as of December 31, 2020$19,050 

The following table sets forth the major categories of the intangible assets and the weighted-average remaining useful lives for those assets that are not already fully amortized (in millions):
December 31, 2020December 31, 2019
Weighted-Average Remaining Useful Lives (in years)Gross Carrying AmountAccumulated AmortizationNet Carrying AmountGross Carrying AmountAccumulated AmortizationNet Carrying Amount
Acquired users0.8$2,057 $(1,840)$217 $2,056 $(1,550)$506 
Acquired technology2.81,297 (1,088)209 1,158 (986)172 
Acquired patents4.0805 (677)128 805 (625)180 
Trade names1.4636 (622)14 635 (604)31 
Other3.2223 (168)55 162 (157)
Total intangible assets$5,018 $(4,395)$623 $4,816 $(3,922)$894 

Amortization expense of intangible assets for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018 was $473 million, $562 million, and $640 million, respectively.

As of December 31, 2020, expected amortization expense for the unamortized acquired intangible assets for the next five years and thereafter is as follows (in millions):
2021$387 
2022121 
202353 
202429 
202517 
Thereafter16 
Total$623 
v3.20.4
Liabilities
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities [Abstract]  
Liabilities Liabilities
The components of accrued expenses and other current liabilities are as follows (in millions):
December 31,
20202019
Legal-related accruals (1)
$1,622 $5,998 
Accrued compensation and benefits2,609 1,704 
Accrued property and equipment1,414 1,082 
Accrued taxes2,038 624 
Other current liabilities3,469 2,327 
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities$11,152 $11,735 
_________________________
(1)Includes accrued legal settlements and fines as well as other legal fees. In 2020 and 2019, the amounts include accrued legal settlement for Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA) of $650 million and $550 million, respectively. In 2019, the amount includes accrued legal settlements for U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) of $5.0 billion. For further information, see Legal and Related Matters in Note 12 — Commitments and Contingencies.

The components of other liabilities are as follows (in millions):
December 31,
20202019
Income tax payable$5,025 $5,651 
Other liabilities1,389 2,094 
Other liabilities$6,414 $7,745 
v3.20.4
Long-term Debt
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]  
Long-term Debt Long-term DebtIn May 2016, we entered into a $2.0 billion senior unsecured revolving credit facility, and any amounts outstanding under this facility would be due and payable on May 20, 2021. No amount had been drawn down under this credit facility, and it was terminated on December 24, 2020. As of December 31, 2020, we had no outstanding long-term debt.
v3.20.4
Commitments and Contingencies
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]  
Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies
Guarantee

In 2018, we established a multi-currency notional cash pool for certain of our entities with a third-party bank provider. Actual cash balances are not physically converted and are not commingled between participating legal entities. As part of the notional cash pool agreement, the bank extends overdraft credit to our participating entities as needed, provided that the overall notionally pooled balance of all accounts in the pool at the end of each day is at least zero. In the unlikely event of a default by our collective entities participating in the pool, any overdraft balances incurred would be guaranteed by Facebook, Inc.

Other Contractual Commitments

We also have $7.50 billion of non-cancelable contractual commitments as of December 31, 2020, which are mostly related to our investments in network infrastructure, consumer hardware, content costs and data center operations. The majority of these commitments are due within five years.

Legal and Related Matters

Beginning on March 20, 2018, multiple putative class actions and derivative actions were filed in state and federal courts in the United States and elsewhere against us and certain of our directors and officers alleging violations of securities laws, breach of fiduciary duties, and other causes of action in connection with our platform and user data practices as well as
the misuse of certain data by a developer that shared such data with third parties in violation of our terms and policies, and seeking unspecified damages and injunctive relief. Beginning on July 27, 2018, two putative class actions were filed in federal court in the United States against us and certain of our directors and officers alleging violations of securities laws in connection with the disclosure of our earnings results for the second quarter of 2018 and seeking unspecified damages. These two actions subsequently were transferred and consolidated in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California with the putative securities class action described above relating to our platform and user data practices. On September 25, 2019, the district court granted our motion to dismiss the consolidated putative securities class action, with leave to amend. On November 15, 2019, a second amended complaint was filed in the consolidated putative securities class action. On August 7, 2020, the district court granted our motion to dismiss the second amended complaint, with leave to amend. On October 16, 2020, a third amended complaint was filed in the consolidated putative securities class action. We believe these lawsuits are without merit, and we are vigorously defending them. In addition, our platform and user data practices, as well as the events surrounding the misuse of certain data by a developer, became the subject of U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC), state attorneys general, and other government inquiries in the United States, Europe, and other jurisdictions. In July 2019, we entered into a settlement and modified consent order to resolve the FTC inquiry, which was approved by the federal court and took effect in April 2020. Among other matters, our settlement with the FTC required us to pay a penalty of $5.0 billion which was paid in April 2020 upon the effectiveness of the modified consent order.

On April 1, 2015, a putative class action was filed against us in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California by Facebook users alleging that the "tag suggestions" facial recognition feature violates the Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act, and seeking statutory damages and injunctive relief. On April 16, 2018, the district court certified a class of Illinois residents, and on May 14, 2018, the district court denied both parties' motions for summary judgment. On May 29, 2018, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit granted our petition for review of the class certification order and stayed the proceeding. On August 8, 2019, the Ninth Circuit affirmed the class certification order. On December 2, 2019, we filed a petition with the U.S. Supreme Court seeking review of the decision of the Ninth Circuit, which was denied. On January 15, 2020, the parties agreed to a settlement in principle to resolve the lawsuit, which provided for a payment of $550 million by us and was subject to court approval. On or about May 8, 2020, the parties executed a formal settlement agreement, and plaintiffs filed a motion for preliminary approval of the settlement by the district court. On June 4, 2020, the district court denied the plaintiffs' motion without prejudice. On July 22, 2020, the parties executed an amended settlement agreement, which, among other terms, provides for a payment of $650 million by us. On August 19, 2020, the court granted preliminary approval of the settlement. The settlement is subject to final court approval. The settlement amount is reflected in accrued expenses and other current liabilities on our consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2020.

Beginning on September 28, 2018, multiple putative class actions were filed in state and federal courts in the United States and elsewhere against us alleging violations of consumer protection laws and other causes of action in connection with a third-party cyber-attack that exploited a vulnerability in Facebook's code to steal user access tokens and access certain profile information from user accounts on Facebook, and seeking unspecified damages and injunctive relief. The actions filed in the United States were consolidated in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. On November 26, 2019, the district court certified a class for injunctive relief purposes but denied certification of a class for purposes of pursuing damages. On January 16, 2020, the parties agreed to a settlement in principle to resolve the lawsuit. On November 15, 2020, the court granted preliminary approval of the settlement. The settlement is subject to final court approval. We believe the remaining lawsuits are without merit, and we are vigorously defending them. In addition, the events surrounding this cyber-attack became the subject of Irish Data Protection Commission (IDPC) and other government inquiries.

From time to time we also notify the IDPC, our designated European privacy regulator under the General Data Protection Regulation, of certain other personal data breaches and privacy issues, and are subject to inquiries and investigations regarding various aspects of our regulatory compliance. Although we are vigorously defending our regulatory compliance, we believe there is a reasonable possibility that the ultimate potential loss related to the inquiries and investigations by the IDPC could be material in the aggregate.

In addition, from time to time, we are subject to litigation and other proceedings involving law enforcement and other regulatory agencies, including in particular in Brazil and Europe, in order to ascertain the precise scope of our legal obligations to comply with the requests of those agencies, including our obligation to disclose user information in particular circumstances. A number of such instances have resulted in the assessment of fines and penalties against us. We believe we have multiple legal grounds to satisfy these requests or prevail against associated fines and penalties, and we intend to vigorously defend such fines and penalties.
With respect to the cases, actions, and inquiries described above, we evaluate the associated developments on a regular basis and accrue a liability when we believe a loss is probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated. In addition, we believe there is a reasonable possibility that we may incur a loss in some of these matters. With respect to the matters described above that do not include an estimate of the amount of loss or range of possible loss, such losses or range of possible losses either cannot be estimated or are not individually material, but we believe there is a reasonable possibility that they may be material in the aggregate.

We are also party to various other legal proceedings, claims, and regulatory, tax or government inquiries and investigations that arise in the ordinary course of business. For example, from time to time we are subject to various litigation and government inquiries and investigations, formal or informal, by competition authorities in the United States, Europe, and other jurisdictions. Such investigations, inquiries, and lawsuits concern, among other things, our business practices in the areas of social networking or social media services, digital advertising, and/or mobile or online applications, as well as past acquisitions. For example, in June 2019 we were informed by the FTC that it had opened an antitrust investigation of our company. On December 9, 2020, the FTC filed a complaint against us in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia alleging that we engaged in anticompetitive conduct and unfair methods of competition in violation of Section 5 of the Federal Trade Commission Act and Section 2 of the Sherman Act by acquiring Instagram in 2012 and WhatsApp in 2014 and by maintaining conditions on access to our platform. In addition, beginning in the third quarter of 2019, we became the subject of antitrust investigations by the U.S. Department of Justice and state attorneys general. On December 9, 2020, the attorneys general from 46 states, the territory of Guam, and the District of Columbia filed a complaint against us in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia alleging that we engaged in anticompetitive conduct in violation of Section 2 of the Sherman Act by acquiring Instagram in 2012 and WhatsApp in 2014 and by maintaining conditions on access to our platform. The complaint also alleges that we violated Section 7 of the Clayton Act by acquiring Instagram and WhatsApp. The lawsuits of the FTC and attorneys general both seek a permanent injunction against our company's alleged violations of the antitrust laws, and other equitable relief, including divestiture or reconstruction of Instagram and WhatsApp. Multiple putative class actions have also been filed in state and federal courts in the United States against us alleging violations of antitrust laws and other causes of action in connection with these acquisitions and other alleged anticompetitive conduct, and seeking unspecified damages and injunctive relief. We believe these lawsuits are without merit, and we are vigorously defending them.

Additionally, we are required to comply with various legal and regulatory obligations around the world. The requirements for complying with these obligations may be uncertain and subject to interpretation and enforcement by regulatory and other authorities, and any failure to comply with such obligations could eventually lead to asserted legal or regulatory action. With respect to these other legal proceedings, claims, regulatory, tax, or government inquiries and investigations, and other matters, asserted and unasserted, we evaluate the associated developments on a regular basis and accrue a liability when we believe a loss is probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated. In addition, we believe there is a reasonable possibility that we may incur a loss in some of these other matters. We believe that the amount of losses or any estimable range of possible losses with respect to these other matters will not, either individually or in the aggregate, have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial statements.

The ultimate outcome of the legal and related matters described in this section, such as whether the likelihood of loss is remote, reasonably possible, or probable, or if and when the reasonably possible range of loss is estimable, is inherently uncertain. Therefore, if one or more of these matters were resolved against us for amounts in excess of management's estimates of loss, our results of operations and financial condition, including in a particular reporting period in which any such outcome becomes probable and estimable, could be materially adversely affected.

For information regarding income tax contingencies, see Note 15—Income Taxes.
Indemnifications

In the normal course of business, to facilitate transactions of services and products, we have agreed to indemnify certain parties with respect to certain matters. We have agreed to hold certain parties harmless against losses arising from a breach of representations or covenants, or out of intellectual property infringement or other claims made by third parties. These agreements may limit the time within which an indemnification claim can be made and the amount of the claim. In addition, we have entered into indemnification agreements with our officers, directors, and certain employees, and our certificate of incorporation and bylaws contain similar indemnification obligations.

It is not possible to determine the maximum potential amount under these indemnification agreements due to the limited history of prior indemnification claims and the unique facts and circumstances involved in each particular agreement. Historically, payments made by us under these agreements have not had a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. In our opinion, as of December 31, 2020, there was not at least a reasonable possibility we had incurred a material loss with respect to indemnification of such parties. We have not recorded any liability for costs related to indemnification through December 31, 2020.
v3.20.4
Stockholders' Equity
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Equity [Abstract]  
Stockholders' Equity Stockholders' Equity
Common Stock

Our certificate of incorporation authorizes the issuance of Class A common stock and Class B common stock. As of December 31, 2020, we are authorized to issue 5,000 million shares of Class A common stock and 4,141 million shares of Class B common stock, each with a par value of $0.000006 per share. Holders of our Class A common stock and Class B common stock are entitled to dividends when, as and if, declared by our board of directors, subject to the rights of the holders of all classes of stock outstanding having priority rights to dividends. As of December 31, 2020, we have not declared any dividends. The holder of each share of Class A common stock is entitled to one vote, while the holder of each share of Class B common stock is entitled to ten votes. Shares of our Class B common stock are convertible into an equivalent number of shares of our Class A common stock and generally convert into shares of our Class A common stock upon transfer. Class A common stock and Class B common stock are referred to as common stock throughout the notes to these financial statements, unless otherwise noted.

As of December 31, 2020, there were 2,406 million shares of Class A common stock and 443 million shares of Class B common stock issued and outstanding.

Share Repurchase Program

Our board of directors has authorized a share repurchase program of our Class A common stock, which commenced in January 2017 and does not have an expiration date. As of December 31, 2019, $4.90 billion remained available and authorized for repurchases under this program. In January 2020, an additional $10.00 billion of repurchases was authorized under this program. In 2020, we repurchased and subsequently retired 27 million shares of our Class A common stock for $6.30 billion. As of December 31, 2020, $8.60 billion remained available and authorized for repurchases. In January 2021, an additional $25 billion of repurchases was authorized under this program.

The timing and actual number of shares repurchased under the repurchase program depend on a variety of factors, including price, general business and market conditions, and other investment opportunities, and shares may be repurchased through open market purchases or privately negotiated transactions, including through the use of trading plans intended to qualify under Rule 10b5-1 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

Share-based Compensation Plans

In 2020, we maintained one active share-based employee compensation plan, the 2012 Equity Incentive Plan, which was amended in each of June 2016 and February 2018 (Amended 2012 Plan). Our Amended 2012 Plan provides for the issuance of incentive and nonstatutory stock options, restricted stock awards, stock appreciation rights, RSUs, performance shares, and stock bonuses to qualified employees, directors and consultants. Shares that are withheld in connection with the net settlement of RSUs or forfeited under our stock plan are added to the reserves of the Amended 2012 Plan. We account for forfeitures as they occur.
Share-based compensation expense mostly consists of the Company's restricted stock units (RSUs) expense. RSUs granted to employees are measured based on the grant-date fair value. In general, our RSUs vest over a service period of four years. Share-based compensation expense is generally recognized based on the straight-line basis over the requisite service period.

As of December 31, 2020, there were 129 million shares of our Class A common stock reserved for future issuance under our Amended 2012 Plan. Pursuant to the automatic increase provision under our Amended 2012 Plan, the number of shares reserved for issuance increases automatically on January 1 of each of the calendar years during the term of the Amended 2012 Plan, which will continue through April 2026 , by a number of shares of Class A common stock equal to the lesser of (i) 2.5% of the total issued and outstanding shares of our Class A common stock as of the immediately preceding December 31st or (ii) a number of shares determined by our board of directors. Pursuant to this automatic increase provision, our board of directors approved an increase of 16 million shares reserved for issuance effective January 1, 2021.

The following table summarizes the activities for our unvested RSUs for the year ended December 31, 2020:
Number of SharesWeighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
(in thousands)
Unvested at December 31, 201978,851 $165.74 
Granted62,032 $188.73 
Vested(38,857)$162.27 
Forfeited(5,293)$165.72 
Unvested at December 31, 202096,733 $181.88 

The fair value as of the respective vesting dates of RSUs that vested during the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018 was $9.38 billion, $6.01 billion, and $7.57 billion, respectively.

As of December 31, 2020, there was $16.50 billion of unrecognized share-based compensation expense related to RSUs awards. This unrecognized compensation expense is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately three years based on vesting under the award service conditions.
v3.20.4
Interest and Other Income, Net
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract]  
Interest and Other Income, Net Interest and Other Income, Net
The following table presents the detail of interest and other income, net, is as follows (in millions):
Year Ended December 31,
202020192018
Interest income, net$672 $904 $652 
Foreign currency exchange losses, net(129)(105)(213)
Other income (expense), net(34)27 
Interest and other income, net$509 $826 $448 
v3.20.4
Income Taxes
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]  
Income Taxes Income Taxes
The components of income before provision for income taxes are as follows (in millions):
 Year Ended December 31, 
 202020192018
Domestic$24,233 $5,317 $8,800 
Foreign8,947 19,495 16,561 
Income before provision for income taxes$33,180 $24,812 $25,361 

The provision for income taxes consisted of the following (in millions):
 Year Ended December 31, 
 202020192018
Current:   
Federal$3,297 $4,321 $1,747 
State523 565 176 
Foreign1,211 1,481 1,031 
Total current tax expense5,031 6,367 2,954 
Deferred:   
Federal(859)(39)316 
State(122)19 34 
Foreign(16)(20)(55)
Total deferred tax (benefits)/expense(997)(40)295 
Provision for income taxes$4,034 $6,327 $3,249 
 

A reconciliation of the U.S. federal statutory income tax rates to our effective tax rate is as follows (in percentages):
 Year Ended December 31, 
 202020192018
U.S. federal statutory income tax rate21.0 %21.0 %21.0 %
State income taxes, net of federal benefit0.8 1.8 0.7 
Research and development tax credits(1.3)(0.8)(1.0)
Share-based compensation0.2 4.5 0.3 
Excess tax benefits related to share-based compensation(1.6)(0.7)(2.6)
Foreign-derived intangible income deduction(1.9)— — 
Effect of non-U.S. operations(2.4)(5.8)(5.9)
Non-deductible FTC settlement accrual— 4.5 — 
Research and development capitalization(3.0)— — 
Other0.4 1.0 0.3 
Effective tax rate12.2 %25.5 %12.8 %
Our deferred tax assets (liabilities) are as follows (in millions):
 December 31, 
 20202019
Deferred tax assets:  
Net operating loss carryforward$2,437 $2,051 
Tax credit carryforward1,055 1,333 
Share-based compensation243 135 
Accrued expenses and other liabilities1,108 798 
Lease liabilities2,058 1,999 
Capitalized research and development1,922 — 
Other340 149 
Total deferred tax assets9,163 6,465 
Less: valuation allowance(1,218)(1,012)
Deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowance7,945 5,453 
Deferred tax liabilities:  
Depreciation and amortization(3,811)(2,387)
Right-of-use assets(1,876)(1,910)
Total deferred tax liabilities(5,687)(4,297)
Net deferred tax assets$2,258 $1,156 

The valuation allowance was approximately $1.22 billion and $1.01 billion as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, mostly relating to U.S. state tax credit carryforwards and U.S. foreign tax credits for which we do not believe a tax benefit is more likely than not to be realized.

As of December 31, 2020, the U.S. federal and state net operating loss carryforwards were $10.62 billion and $2.19 billion, which will begin to expire in 2028 and 2027, respectively, if not utilized. We have federal tax credit carryforwards of $424 million, which will begin to expire in 2029, if not utilized, and state tax credit carryforwards of $2.65 billion, most of which do not expire.

Utilization of our net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards may be subject to substantial annual limitations due to the ownership change limitations provided by the Internal Revenue Code and similar state provisions. Such annual limitations could result in the expiration of the net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards before their utilization. The events that may cause ownership changes include, but are not limited to, a cumulative stock ownership change of greater than 50% over a three‑year period.

The following table reflects changes in the gross unrecognized tax benefits (in millions):
 Year Ended December 31, 
 202020192018
Gross unrecognized tax benefits ‑ beginning of period$7,863 $4,678 $3,870 
Increases related to prior year tax positions356 2,309 457 
Decreases related to prior year tax positions(253)(525)(396)
Increases related to current year tax positions1,045 1,402 831 
Decreases related to settlements of prior year tax positions(319)(1)(84)
Gross unrecognized tax benefits ‑ end of period$8,692 $7,863 $4,678 
During all years presented, we recognized interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits within the provision for income taxes on the consolidated statements of income. The amount of interest and penalties accrued as of December 31, 2020 and 2019 were $774 million and $747 million, respectively.

If the balance of gross unrecognized tax benefits of $8.69 billion as of December 31, 2020 were realized in a future period, this would result in a tax benefit of $4.85 billion within our provision of income taxes at such time.

On July 27, 2015, the United States Tax Court issued a decision (Tax Court Decision) in Altera Corp. v. Commissioner, which concluded that related parties in a cost sharing arrangement are not required to share expenses related to share-based compensation. The Tax Court Decision was appealed by the Commissioner to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals (Ninth Circuit). On June 7, 2019, the Ninth Circuit issued an opinion (Altera Ninth Circuit Opinion) that reversed the Tax Court Decision. Based on the Altera Ninth Circuit Opinion, we recorded a cumulative income tax expense of $1.11 billion in the second quarter of 2019. On July 22, 2019, the taxpayer requested a rehearing before the full Ninth Circuit and the request was denied on November 12, 2019. The taxpayer requested a hearing before the Supreme Court of the United States and the request was denied on June 22, 2020. Since we started to accrue income tax for share-based compensation cost-sharing expense in the second quarter of 2019, the denial of the request by the Supreme Court did not have a material impact to our financial results in 2020.

We are subject to taxation in the United States and various other state and foreign jurisdictions. The material jurisdictions in which we are subject to potential examination include the United States and Ireland. We are under examination by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for our 2014 through 2016 and 2018 tax years and by the Irish tax authorities for our 2016 through 2018 tax years. Our 2017 and subsequent tax years remain open to examination by the IRS. Our 2019 and subsequent tax years remain open to examination in Ireland.

In July 2016, we received a Statutory Notice of Deficiency (Notice) from the IRS related to transfer pricing with our foreign subsidiaries in conjunction with the examination of the 2010 tax year. While the Notice applies only to the 2010 tax year, the IRS stated that it will also apply its position for tax years subsequent to 2010. We do not agree with the position of the IRS and have filed a petition in the Tax Court challenging the Notice. On January 15, 2020, the IRS filed its Pretrial Memorandum in the case stating that it planned to assert at trial an adjustment that is higher than the adjustment stated in the Notice. The first session of the trial began in February 2020 and a second session is expected to continue in 2021. It is not clear how the IRS intends to apply the revised adjustment to future years. Based on the information provided, we believe that, if the IRS prevails in its updated position, this could result in an additional federal tax liability of an estimated, aggregate amount of up to approximately $9.0 billion in excess of the amounts in our originally filed U.S. return, plus interest and any penalties asserted.

In March 2018, we received a second Notice from the IRS in conjunction with the examination of our 2011 through 2013 tax years. The IRS applied its position from the 2010 tax year to each of these years and also proposed new adjustments related to other transfer pricing with our foreign subsidiaries and certain tax credits that we claimed. If the IRS prevails in its position for these new adjustments, this could result in an additional federal tax liability of up to approximately $680 million in excess of the amounts in our originally filed U.S. returns, plus interest and any penalties asserted. We do not agree with the positions of the IRS in the second Notice and have filed a petition in the Tax Court challenging the second Notice.

We have previously accrued an estimated unrecognized tax benefit consistent with the guidance in ASC 740, Income Taxes, that is lower than the potential additional federal tax liability from the positions taken by the IRS in the two Notices and its Pretrial Memorandum. In addition, if the IRS prevails in its positions related to transfer pricing with our foreign subsidiaries, the additional tax that we would owe would be partially offset by a reduction in the tax that we owe under the mandatory transition tax on accumulated foreign earnings from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (Tax Act). As of December 31, 2020, we have not resolved these matters and proceedings continue in the Tax Court.

We believe that adequate amounts have been reserved in accordance with ASC 740 for any adjustments to the provision for income taxes or other tax items that may ultimately result from these examinations. The timing of the resolution, settlement, and closure of any audits is highly uncertain, and it is reasonably possible that the balance of gross unrecognized tax benefits could significantly change in the next 12 months. Given the number of years remaining that are subject to examination, we are unable to estimate the full range of possible adjustments to the balance of gross unrecognized
tax benefits. If the taxing authorities prevail in the assessment of additional tax due, the assessed tax, interest, and penalties, if any, could have a material adverse impact on our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.
v3.20.4
Geographical Information
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Segments, Geographical Areas [Abstract]  
Geographical Information Geographical Information
The following table sets forth our long-lived assets by geographic area, which consist of property and equipment, net and operating lease right-of-use assets, net (in millions):
 December 31,
 20202019
Long-lived assets:  
United States$43,128 $35,858 
Rest of the world(1)
11,853 8,925 
Total long-lived assets$54,981 $44,783 
_________________________
(1)No individual country, other than disclosed above, exceeded 10% of our total long-lived assets for any period presented.
v3.20.4
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Basis of Presentation
Basis of Presentation

We prepared the consolidated financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Facebook, Inc., its subsidiaries where we have controlling financial interests, and any variable interest entities for which we are deemed to be the primary beneficiary. All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated.

Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current year's presentation. None of these reclassifications had a material impact to our consolidated financial statements.
Use of Estimates
Use of Estimates

Preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires the use of estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. These estimates form the basis for judgments we make about the carrying values of our assets and liabilities, which are not readily apparent from other sources. We base our estimates and judgments on historical information and on various other assumptions that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances. GAAP requires us to make estimates and judgments in several areas, including, but not limited to, those related to revenue recognition, valuation of equity investments, income taxes, loss contingencies, valuation of long-lived assets including goodwill and intangible assets and their associated estimated useful lives, collectibility of accounts receivable, credit losses of available-for-sale (AFS) debt securities, fair value of financial instruments, and leases. These estimates are based on management's knowledge about current events and expectations about actions we may undertake in the future. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates.
The COVID-19 pandemic has created and may continue to create significant uncertainty in macroeconomic conditions, which may cause further business slowdowns or shutdowns, depress demand for our advertising business, and adversely impact our results of operations. During the year ended December 31, 2020, we faced uncertainties around our estimates of revenue collectibility and accounts receivable credit losses. We expect uncertainties around our key accounting estimates to continue to evolve depending on the duration and degree of impact associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Our estimates may change as new events occur and additional information emerges, and such changes are recognized or disclosed in our consolidated financial statements.
Revenue Recognition
Revenue Recognition

Revenue is recognized when control of the promised goods or services is transferred to our customers, in an amount that reflects the consideration we expect to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services.

We determine revenue recognition by applying the following steps:

identification of the contract, or contracts, with a customer;
identification of the performance obligations in the contract;
determination of the transaction price;
allocation of the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract; and
recognition of revenue when, or as, we satisfy a performance obligation.

Revenue excludes sales and usage‑based taxes where it has been determined that we are acting as a pass‑through agent.
Advertising

Advertising revenue is generated by displaying ad products on Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, and third-party affiliated websites or mobile applications. Marketers pay for ad products either directly or through their relationships with advertising agencies or resellers, based on the number of impressions delivered or the number of actions, such as clicks, taken by our users.

We recognize revenue from the display of impression-based ads in the contracted period in which the impressions are delivered. Impressions are considered delivered when an ad is displayed to users. We recognize revenue from the delivery of action-based ads in the period in which a user takes the action the marketer contracted for. In general, we report advertising revenue on a gross basis, since we control the advertising inventory before it is transferred to our customers. Our control is evidenced by our sole ability to monetize the advertising inventory before it is transferred to our customers. For revenue generated from arrangements that involve third-party publishers, we evaluate whether we are the principal or the agent, and for those advertising revenue arrangements where we are the agent, we recognize revenue on a net basis.

We may accept lower consideration than the amount promised per the contract for certain revenue transactions and certain customers may receive cash-based incentives, credits, or refunds, which are accounted for as variable consideration when estimating the amount of revenue to recognize. We estimate these amounts based on the expected amount to be provided to customers and reduce revenue. We believe that there will not be significant changes to our estimates of variable consideration.

Other Revenue

Other revenue consists of revenue from the delivery of Facebook Reality Labs (FRL) consumer hardware devices, net fees we receive from developers using our Payments infrastructure, as well as revenue from various other sources.

Deferred Revenue and Deposits

Deferred revenue mostly consists of billings and payments we receive from marketers in advance of revenue recognition as well as revenue not yet recognized for unspecified software upgrades and updates for various FRL products. Deposits relate to unused balances held on behalf of our users who primarily use these balances to make purchases in games on our platform. Once this balance is utilized by a user, the majority of this amount would then be payable to the developer and the balance would be recognized as revenue. The increase in the deferred revenue balance for the year ended December 31, 2020 was driven by cash payments from customers in advance of satisfying our performance obligations in FRL sales and advertising revenue, offset by revenue recognized that was included in the deferred revenue balance at the beginning of the period.

Our payment terms vary by the products or services offered. The term between billings and when payment is due is not significant. For certain products or services and customer types, we require payment before the products or services are delivered to the customer.

Practical Expedients and Exemptions

We generally expense sales commissions when incurred because the amortization period would have been one year or less. These costs are recorded within marketing and sales on our consolidated statements of income.

We do not disclose the value of unsatisfied performance obligations for (i) contracts with an original expected length of one year or less and (ii) contracts for which we recognize revenue at the amount to which we have the right to invoice for services performed.

Cost of Revenue

Our cost of revenue consists primarily of expenses associated with the delivery and distribution of our products. These include expenses related to the operation of our data centers and technical infrastructure, such as facility and server equipment depreciation, salaries, benefits, and share-based compensation for employees on our operations teams, and energy and bandwidth costs. Cost of revenue also includes costs associated with partner arrangements, including traffic acquisition
and content costs, credit card and other transaction fees related to processing customer transactions, and cost of consumer hardware devices sold.

Content Costs

Our content costs are mostly related to payments to content providers from whom we license video and music to increase engagement on the platform. For licensed video, we expense the cost per title when the title is accepted and available for viewing if the capitalization criteria are not met. Video content costs that meet the criteria for capitalization were not material to date.

For licensed music, we expense the license fees over the contractual license period. Expensed content costs are included in cost of revenue on the consolidated statements of income.
Software Development Costs
Software Development Costs

Software development costs, including costs to develop software products or the software component of products to be marketed or sold to external users, are expensed before the software or technology reach technological feasibility, which is typically reached shortly before the release of such products.

Software development costs also include costs to develop software to be used solely to meet internal needs and applications used to deliver our services. These software development costs meet the criteria for capitalization once the preliminary project stage is complete and it is probable that the project will be completed and the software will be used to perform the function intended.

Development costs that meet the criteria for capitalization were not material to date.
Income Taxes
Income Taxes

We are subject to income taxes in the United States and numerous foreign jurisdictions. Significant judgment is required in determining our provision for income taxes and income tax assets and liabilities, including evaluating uncertainties in the application of accounting principles and complex tax laws.

We record a provision for income taxes for the anticipated tax consequences of the reported results of operations using the asset and liability method. Under this method, we recognize deferred income tax assets and liabilities for the expected future consequences of temporary differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities, as well as for loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using the tax rates that are expected to apply to taxable income for the years in which those tax assets and liabilities are expected to be realized or settled. We recognize the deferred income tax effects of a change in tax rates in the period of the enactment.

We record a valuation allowance to reduce our deferred tax assets to the net amount that we believe is more likely than not to be realized. We consider all available evidence, both positive and negative, including historical levels of income, expectations and risks associated with estimates of future taxable income and ongoing tax planning strategies in assessing the need for a valuation allowance.
We recognize tax benefits from uncertain tax positions only if we believe that it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities based on the technical merits of the position. These uncertain tax positions include our estimates for transfer pricing that have been developed based upon analyses of appropriate arms-length prices. Similarly, our estimates related to uncertain tax positions concerning research tax credits are based on an assessment of whether our available documentation corroborating the nature of our activities supporting the tax credits will be sufficient. Although we believe that we have adequately reserved for our uncertain tax positions (including net interest and penalties), we can provide no assurance that the final tax outcome of these matters will not be materially different. We make adjustments to these reserves in accordance with the income tax accounting guidance when facts and circumstances change, such as the closing of a tax audit or the refinement of an estimate. To the extent that the final tax outcome of these matters is different from the amounts recorded, such differences will affect the provision for income taxes in the period in which such determination is made, and could have a material impact on our financial condition and operating results.
Advertising Expense Advertising ExpenseAdvertising costs are expensed when incurred and are included in marketing and sales expenses on the consolidated statements of income.
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Marketable Securities, and Restricted Cash
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Marketable Securities, and Restricted Cash

Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on deposit with banks and highly liquid investments with maturities of 90 days or less from the date of purchase.

We hold investments in marketable securities, consisting of U.S. government securities, U.S. government agency securities, and investment grade corporate debt securities. We classify our marketable securities as available-for-sale (AFS) investments in our current assets because they represent investments of cash available for current operations. Our AFS investments are carried at estimated fair value with any unrealized gains and losses, net of taxes, included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in stockholders' equity. AFS debt securities with an amortized cost basis in excess of estimated fair value are assessed to determine what amount of that difference, if any, is caused by expected credit losses. Allowance for credit losses on AFS debt securities are recognized as a charge in interest and other income (expense), net on our consolidated statements of income, and any remaining unrealized losses, net of taxes, are included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in stockholders' equity. The amount of credit losses recorded for the year ended December 31, 2020 was not material. There was no impairment charge for any unrealized losses in 2019 and 2018. We determine realized gains or losses on sale of marketable securities on a specific identification method and record such gains or losses as interest and other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of income.

We also maintain a multi-currency notional cash pool for our participating entities with a third-party bank provider. Actual cash balances are not physically converted and are not commingled between participating legal entities. We classify the overdraft balances within accrued expenses and other current liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.

We classify certain restricted cash balances within prepaid expenses and other current assets and other assets on the consolidated balance sheets based upon the term of the remaining restrictions.
Equity Investments Equity Investments Our equity investments are investments in equity securities of privately-held companies without readily determinable market values. We elected to account for most of our equity investments using the measurement alternative, which is cost, less any impairment, adjusted for changes in fair value resulting from observable transactions for identical or similar investments of the same issuer. The change in carrying value, if any, is recognized in interest and other income (expense), net on our consolidated statements of income. We periodically review our equity investments for impairment. If indicators exist and the estimated fair value of an investment is below the carrying amount, we will write down the investment to fair value.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Fair Value of Financial Instruments

We apply fair value accounting for all financial assets and liabilities and non-financial assets and liabilities that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis. We define fair value as the price that would be received from selling an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. When determining the fair value measurements for assets and liabilities, which are required to be recorded at fair value, we consider the principal or most advantageous market in which we would transact and the market-based risk measurements or assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, such as risks inherent in valuation techniques, transfer restrictions and credit risk. Fair value is estimated by applying the following hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value into three levels and bases the categorization within the hierarchy upon the lowest level of input that is available and significant to the fair value measurement:

Level 1- Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
Level 2- Observable inputs other than quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in inactive markets, or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.

Level 3- Inputs that are generally unobservable and typically reflect management's estimate of assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability.
Our valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of cash equivalents and marketable debt securities were derived from quoted market prices or alternative pricing sources and models utilizing observable market inputs.
Accounts Receivable and Allowances Accounts Receivable and AllowancesAccounts receivable are recorded and carried at the original invoiced amount less an allowance for any potential uncollectible amounts. We make estimates of expected credit and collectibility trends for the allowance for credit losses and allowance for unbilled receivables based upon our assessment of various factors, including historical experience, the age of the accounts receivable balances, credit quality of our customers, current economic conditions, reasonable and supportable forecasts of future economic conditions, and other factors that may affect our ability to collect from customers. Expected credit losses are recorded as general and administrative expenses on our consolidated statements of income.
Property and Equipment
Property and Equipment

Property and equipment, which includes amounts recorded under finance leases, are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets or the remaining lease term, whichever is shorter.

The estimated useful lives of property and equipment are described below:
Property and Equipment 
Useful Life 
Network equipment
Three to 20 years
Buildings
Three to 30 years
Computer software, office equipment and other
Two to five years
Finance lease right-of-use assets
Three to 20 years
Leasehold improvementsLesser of estimated useful life or remaining lease term
 

The useful lives of our property and equipment are determined by management when those assets are initially recognized and are routinely reviewed for the remaining estimated useful lives. Our current estimate of useful lives represents the best estimate of the useful lives based on current facts and circumstances, but may differ from the actual useful lives due to changes in future circumstances such as changes to our business operations, changes in the planned use of assets, and technological advancements. When we change the estimated useful life assumption for any asset, the remaining carrying amount of the asset is accounted for prospectively and depreciated or amortized over the revised estimated useful life. Historically changes in useful lives have not resulted in material changes to our depreciation and amortization expense.

Land and assets held within construction in progress are not depreciated. Construction in progress is related to the construction or development of property and equipment that have not yet been placed in service for their intended use.

The cost of maintenance and repairs is expensed as incurred. When assets are retired or otherwise disposed of, the cost and related accumulated depreciation are removed from their respective accounts, and any gain or loss on such sale or disposal is reflected in income from operations.
Lease Obligations
Lease Obligations

We have operating leases comprised of certain offices, data center, land, colocations, and equipment leases. We also have finance leases for certain network equipment. We determine if an arrangement is a lease at inception. Most of our leases contain lease and non-lease components. Non-lease components include fixed payments for maintenance, utilities, real estate taxes, and management fees. We combine fixed lease and non-lease components and account for them as a single lease component. Our lease agreements may contain variable costs such as contingent rent escalations, common area maintenance, insurance, real estate taxes or other costs. Such variable lease costs are expensed as incurred on the consolidated statements of income. For certain colocation and equipment leases, we apply a portfolio approach to effectively account for the operating lease right-of-use (ROU) assets and lease liabilities.

For leases that have greater than 12-month lease term, ROU assets and lease liabilities are recognized on the consolidated balance sheet at commencement date based on the present value of remaining fixed lease payments. We consider only payments that are fixed and determinable at the time of commencement.

Our lease terms may include options to extend or terminate the lease when it is reasonably certain that we will exercise such options. When determining the probability of exercising such options, we consider contract-based, asset-based, entity-based, and market-based factors.

As most of our leases do not provide an implicit rate, we use our incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at commencement date in determining the present value of lease payments. Our incremental borrowing rate is a hypothetical rate based on our understanding of what our credit rating would be in a similar economic environment.

Operating leases are included in operating lease ROU assets, operating lease liabilities, current and operating lease liabilities, non-current on our consolidated balance sheets. Finance leases are included in property and equipment, net, accrued expenses and other current liabilities, and other liabilities on our consolidated balance sheets.

Results and disclosure requirements for reporting periods beginning after January 1, 2019 are presented under Topic 842, while prior period amounts have not been adjusted and continue to be reported under Topic 840.
Loss Contingencies
Loss Contingencies

We are involved in legal proceedings, claims, and regulatory, tax or government inquiries and investigations that arise in the ordinary course of business. Certain of these matters include speculative claims for substantial or indeterminate amounts of damages. Additionally, we are required to comply with various legal and regulatory obligations around the world. The requirements for complying with these obligations may be uncertain and subject to interpretation and enforcement by regulatory and other authorities, and any failure to comply with such obligations could eventually lead to asserted legal or regulatory action. With respect to these matters, asserted and unasserted, we evaluate the developments on a regular basis and accrue a liability when we believe that it is both probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount can be reasonably estimated. If we determine there is a reasonable possibility that we may incur a loss and the loss or range of loss can be estimated, we disclose the possible loss in the notes to the consolidated financial statements to the extent material.
We review the developments in our contingencies that could affect the amount of the provisions that has been previously recorded, and the matters and related possible losses disclosed. We make adjustments to our provisions and changes to our disclosures accordingly to reflect the impact of negotiations, settlements, rulings, advice of legal counsel, and updated information. Significant judgment is required to determine the probability of loss and the estimated amount of loss, including when and if the probability and estimate has changed for asserted and unasserted matters.
Business Combinations
Business Combinations

We allocate the fair value of purchase consideration to the tangible assets acquired, liabilities assumed and intangible assets acquired based on their estimated fair values. The excess of the fair value of purchase consideration over the fair values of these identifiable assets and liabilities is recorded as goodwill. Such valuations require management to make significant estimates and assumptions, especially with respect to intangible assets. Significant estimates in valuing certain intangible assets include, but are not limited to, estimated replacement costs and future expected cash flows from acquired users,
acquired technology, acquired patents, and trade names from a market participant perspective, useful lives and discount rates. Management's estimates of fair value are based upon assumptions believed to be reasonable, but which are inherently uncertain and unpredictable and, as a result, actual results may differ from estimates. Allocation of purchase consideration to identifiable assets and liabilities affects Company amortization expense, as acquired finite-lived intangible assets are amortized over the useful life, whereas any indefinite lived intangible assets, including goodwill, are not amortized. During the measurement period, which is not to exceed one year from the acquisition date, we record adjustments to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, with the corresponding offset to goodwill. Upon the conclusion of the measurement period, any subsequent adjustments are recorded to earnings.
Long-lived Assets Including Goodwill and Other Acquired Intangibles Assets
Long-lived Assets Including Goodwill and Other Acquired Intangibles Assets

We evaluate the recoverability of property and equipment and acquired finite-lived intangible assets for possible impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable. The evaluation is performed at the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are largely independent of the cash flows of other assets and liabilities. Recoverability of these assets is measured by a comparison of the carrying amounts to the future undiscounted cash flows the assets are expected to generate from the use and eventual disposition. If such review indicates that the carrying amount of property and equipment and intangible assets is not recoverable, the carrying amount of such assets is reduced to fair value. We have not recorded any significant impairment charges during the years presented.

We review goodwill for impairment at least annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances would more likely than not reduce the fair value of our single reporting unit below its carrying value. As of December 31, 2020, no impairment of goodwill has been identified.

Acquired finite-lived intangible assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets. We routinely review the remaining estimated useful lives of property and equipment and finite-lived intangible assets. If we change the estimated useful life assumption for any asset, the remaining unamortized balance is amortized or depreciated over the revised estimated useful life.
Foreign Currency
Foreign Currency

Generally, the functional currency of our international subsidiaries is the local currency. We translate the financial statements of these subsidiaries to U.S. dollars using month-end rates of exchange for assets and liabilities, and average rates of exchange for revenue, costs, and expenses. Translation gains and losses are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) as a component of stockholders' equity. As of December 31, 2020 we had a cumulative translation gain, net of tax of $439 million and as of December 31, 2019, we had a cumulative translation loss, net of tax of $617 million. Net losses resulting from foreign exchange transactions were $129 million, $105 million, and $213 million for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, respectively. These losses were recorded as interest and other income (expense), net on our consolidated statements of income.
Credit Risk and Concentration
Credit Risk and Concentration

Our financial instruments that are potentially subject to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash, marketable securities, and accounts receivable. The majority of cash equivalents consists of money market funds, that primarily invest in U.S. government and agency securities. Marketable securities consist of investments in U.S. government securities, U.S. government agency securities, and investment grade corporate debt securities. Our investment portfolio in corporate debt securities is highly liquid and diversified among individual issuers. The amount of credit losses recorded for the year ended December 31, 2020 was not material.

Accounts receivable are typically unsecured and are derived from revenue earned from customers across different industries and countries. We generated 42% of our revenue for the year ended December 31, 2020 and 43% of our revenue for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 from marketers and developers based in the United States, with the majority of revenue outside of the United States coming from customers located in western Europe, China, Canada, Australia, Japan, Vietnam and Brazil.

We perform ongoing credit evaluations of our customers and generally do not require collateral. We maintain an allowance for estimated credit losses and bad debt expense on these losses was not material during the years ended
December 31, 2020, 2019, or 2018. In the event that accounts receivable collection cycles deteriorate, our operating results and financial position could be adversely affected.

No customer represented 10% or more of total revenue during the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018.
Segments
Segments

Our chief operating decision-maker is our Chief Executive Officer who makes resource allocation decisions and assesses performance based on financial information presented on a consolidated basis. There are no segment managers who are held accountable by the chief operating decision-maker, or anyone else, for operations, operating results, and planning for levels or components below the consolidated unit level. Accordingly, we have determined that we have a single reportable segment and operating segment structure.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements Adopted and Not Yet Adopted
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

Fair Value Measurements

On January 1, 2020, we adopted Accounting Standards Update No. 2018-13, Changes to Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurements (Topic 820), which improved the effectiveness of disclosure requirements for recurring and nonrecurring fair value measurements. The standard removes, modifies, and adds certain disclosure requirements. The adoption of this new standard did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

Credit Losses

On January 1, 2020, we adopted Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments, using the modified retrospective transition method. Upon adoption, we changed our impairment model to utilize a current expected credit losses (CECL) model in place of the incurred loss methodology for financial instruments measured at amortized cost, including our accounts receivable. In addition, we modified our impairment model for AFS debt securities and to discontinue using the concept of "other than temporary" impairment on AFS debt securities. CECL estimates on accounts receivable are recorded as general and administrative expenses on our consolidated statements of income. Allowance for credit losses on AFS debt securities are recognized as a charge in interest and other income (expense), net on our consolidated statements of income. The cumulative effect adjustment from adoption was immaterial to our consolidated financial statements. We continue to monitor the financial implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on expected credit losses.
Income Taxes
On October 1, 2020, we early adopted Accounting Standard Update No. 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes (ASU 2019-12), which simplifies the accounting for income taxes. This guidance was effective beginning January 1, 2021, with early adoption permitted. The adoption of this new standard did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted
In January 2020, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2020-01, Investments—Equity Securities (Topic 321), Investments—Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323), and Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815) (ASU 2020-01), which clarifies the interaction of the accounting for equity securities under Topic 321, the accounting for equity method investments in Topic 323, and the accounting for certain forward contracts and purchased options in Topic 815. We will adopt the new standard effective January 1, 2021 and do not expect the adoption of this guidance to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
In August 2020, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2020-06, Debt—Debt with Conversion and Other Options (Subtopic 470-20) and Derivatives and Hedging—Contracts in Entity's Own Equity (Subtopic 815-40): Accounting for Convertible Instruments and Contracts in an Entity’s Own Equity (ASU 2020-06), which simplifies the accounting for convertible instruments by reducing the number of accounting models available for convertible debt instruments. This guidance also eliminates the treasury stock method to calculate diluted earnings per share for convertible instruments and requires the use of the if-converted method. This guidance will be effective for us in the first quarter of 2022 on a full
or modified retrospective basis, with early adoption permitted. We do not expect the adoption of this guidance to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
Earnings Per Share Earnings per Share
We compute earnings per share (EPS) of Class A and Class B common stock using the two-class method required for participating securities. We consider restricted stock awards to be participating securities because holders of such shares have non-forfeitable dividend rights in the event of our declaration of a dividend for common shares.

Undistributed earnings allocated to participating securities are subtracted from net income in determining net income attributable to common stockholders. Basic EPS is computed by dividing net income attributable to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of shares of our Class A and Class B common stock outstanding, adjusted for outstanding shares that are subject to repurchase.

For the calculation of diluted EPS, net income attributable to common stockholders for basic EPS is adjusted by the effect of dilutive securities, including awards under our equity compensation plans. In 2018, the calculation of diluted EPS also included the effect of inducement awards under separate non-plan restricted stock unit (RSU) award agreements.
In addition, the computation of the diluted EPS of Class A common stock assumes the conversion of our Class B common stock to Class A common stock, while the diluted EPS of Class B common stock does not assume the conversion of those shares to Class A common stock. Diluted EPS attributable to common stockholders is computed by dividing the resulting net income attributable to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of fully diluted common shares outstanding.
v3.20.4
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Estimated Useful Lives of Property and Equipment The estimated useful lives of property and equipment are described below:
Property and Equipment 
Useful Life 
Network equipment
Three to 20 years
Buildings
Three to 30 years
Computer software, office equipment and other
Two to five years
Finance lease right-of-use assets
Three to 20 years
Leasehold improvementsLesser of estimated useful life or remaining lease term
v3.20.4
Revenue (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]  
Schedule of Disaggregation of Revenue
Revenue disaggregated by revenue source consists of the following (in millions):
Year Ended December 31, 
202020192018
Advertising$84,169 $69,655 $55,013 
Other revenue1,796 1,042 825 
Total revenue$85,965 $70,697 $55,838 

Revenue disaggregated by geography, based on the billing address of our customers, consists of the following (in millions):
 Year Ended December 31, 
 202020192018
Revenue:   
United States and Canada(1)
$38,433 $32,206 $25,727 
Europe(2)
20,349 16,826 13,631 
Asia-Pacific19,848 15,406 11,733 
Rest of World(2)
7,335 6,259 4,747 
Total revenue$85,965 $70,697 $55,838 
_________________________
(1)United States revenue was $36.25 billion, $30.23 billion, and $24.10 billion for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, respectively.
(2)Europe includes Russia and Turkey, and Rest of World includes Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East.
Schedule of Deferred Revenue and Deposits
Deferred revenue and deposits consists of the following (in millions):
December 31,
 20202019
Deferred revenue$335 $234 
Deposits47 35 
Total deferred revenue and deposits$382 $269 
v3.20.4
Earnings per Share (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]  
Schedule of Numerators and Denominators of Basic and Diluted EPS Computations for Common Stock
The numerators and denominators of the basic and diluted EPS computations for our common stock are calculated as follows (in millions, except per share amounts):
 Year Ended December 31,
 202020192018
 Class
A
Class
B
Class
A
Class
B
Class
A
Class
B 
Basic EPS:      
Numerator      
Net income$24,607 $4,539 $15,569 $2,916 $18,411 $3,701 
Less: Net income attributable to participating securities— — — — (1)— 
Net income attributable to common stockholders$24,607 $4,539 $15,569 $2,916 $18,410 $3,701 
Denominator      
Weighted-average shares outstanding2,407 444 2,404 450 2,406 484 
Basic EPS$10.22 $10.22 $6.48 $6.48 $7.65 $7.65 
Diluted EPS:    
Numerator      
Net income attributable to common stockholders$24,607 $4,539 $15,569 $2,916 $18,410 $3,701 
Reallocation of net income attributable to participating securities— — — — — 
Reallocation of net income as a result of conversion of Class B to Class A common stock4,539 — 2,916 — 3,701 — 
Reallocation of net income to Class B common stock— (58)— (18)— (16)
Net income for diluted EPS$29,146 $4,481 $18,485 $2,898 $22,112 $3,685 
Denominator      
Number of shares used for basic EPS computation2,407 444 2,404 450 2,406 484 
Conversion of Class B to Class A common stock444 — 450 — 484 — 
Weighted-average effect of dilutive RSUs and employee stock options37 — 22 31 
Number of shares used for diluted EPS computation2,888 444 2,876 451 2,921 487 
Diluted EPS$10.09 $10.09 $6.43 $6.43 $7.57 $7.57 
v3.20.4
Cash and Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Cash and Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities [Abstract]  
Schedule of Cash, Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities
The following table sets forth the cash and cash equivalents and marketable securities (in millions):
December 31,
20202019
Cash and cash equivalents:
Cash$6,488 $4,735 
Money market funds9,755 12,787 
U.S. government securities1,016 815 
U.S. government agency securities— 444 
Certificate of deposits and time deposits305 217 
Corporate debt securities12 81 
Total cash and cash equivalents17,576 19,079 
Marketable securities:
U.S. government securities20,921 18,679 
U.S. government agency securities11,698 6,712 
Corporate debt securities11,759 10,385 
Total marketable securities44,378 35,776 
Total cash and cash equivalents and marketable securities$61,954 $54,855 
Schedule of Marketable Securities by Contractual Maturities
The following table classifies our marketable securities by contractual maturities (in millions):
December 31,
20202019
Due in one year$12,826 $12,803 
Due after one year to five years31,552 22,973 
Total$44,378 $35,776 
v3.20.4
Equity Investments (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]  
Equity Securities without Readily Determinable Fair Value The changes in the carrying value of equity investments for the year ended December 31, 2020 were as follows (in millions):
Balance as of December 31, 2019$86 
Jio 5,824 
Other investments323 
Adjustments
Balance as of December 31, 2020$6,234 
v3.20.4
Fair Value Measurement (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]  
Schedule of Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on Recurring Basis
The following table summarizes our assets measured at fair value and the classification by level of input within the fair value hierarchy (in millions): 
  Fair Value Measurement at Reporting Date Using
Description December 31,
2020
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets
(Level 1)
Significant Other Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
Significant Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)
Cash equivalents:    
Money market funds$9,755 $9,755 $— $— 
U.S. government securities1,016 1,016 — — 
Certificate of deposits and time deposits305 — 305 — 
Corporate debt securities12 — 12 — 
Marketable securities:    
U.S. government securities20,921 20,921 — — 
U.S. government agency securities11,698 11,698 — — 
Corporate debt securities11,759 — 11,759 — 
Total cash equivalents and marketable securities$55,466 $43,390 $12,076 $— 
  Fair Value Measurement at Reporting Date Using
DescriptionDecember 31,
2019
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets
(Level 1)
Significant Other Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
Significant Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3) 
Cash equivalents:    
Money market funds$12,787 $12,787 $— $— 
U.S. government securities815 815 — — 
U.S. government agency securities444 444 — — 
Certificate of deposits and time deposits217 — 217 — 
Corporate debt securities81 — 81 — 
Marketable securities:
U.S. government securities18,679 18,679 — — 
U.S. government agency securities6,712 6,712 — — 
Corporate debt securities10,385 — 10,385 — 
Total cash equivalents and marketable securities$50,120 $39,437 $10,683 $— 
v3.20.4
Property and Equipment (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]  
Schedule of Property and Equipment Property and equipment, net consists of the following (in millions):
 December 31,
 20202019
Land$1,326 $1,097 
Buildings17,360 11,226 
Leasehold improvements4,321 3,112 
Network equipment22,003 17,004 
Computer software, office equipment and other2,458 1,813 
Finance lease right-of-use assets2,295 1,635 
Construction in progress11,288 10,099 
Total61,051 45,986 
Less: Accumulated depreciation(15,418)(10,663)
Property and equipment, net$45,633 $35,323 
v3.20.4
Leases (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Leases [Abstract]  
Schedule of Components of Lease Costs
The components of lease costs for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 are as follows (in millions):
December 31,
20202019
Finance lease cost
     Amortization of right-of-use assets$259 $195 
     Interest14 12 
Operating lease cost1,391 1,139 
Variable lease cost and other, net269 160 
       Total lease cost$1,933 $1,506 
Schedule of Supplemental Balance Sheet Information
Supplemental balance sheet information related to leases is as follows:
December 31,
20202019
Weighted-average remaining lease term
     Operating leases12.2 years13.0 years
     Finance leases14.9 years15.3 years
Weighted-average discount rate
     Operating leases3.1 %3.2 %
     Finance leases2.9 %3.1 %
Schedule of Maturities of Finance Lease Liabilities
The following is a schedule, by years, of maturities of lease liabilities as of December 31, 2020 (in millions):
Operating LeasesFinance Leases
2021$1,300 $68 
20221,394 51 
20231,266 41 
20241,163 41 
20251,001 41 
Thereafter7,206 401 
Total undiscounted cash flows13,330 643 
Less: Imputed interest(2,676)(120)
Present value of lease liabilities$10,654 $523 
Lease liabilities, current$1,023 $54 
Lease liabilities, non-current9,631 469 
Present value of lease liabilities$10,654 $523 
Schedule of Maturities of Operating Lease Liabilities
The following is a schedule, by years, of maturities of lease liabilities as of December 31, 2020 (in millions):
Operating LeasesFinance Leases
2021$1,300 $68 
20221,394 51 
20231,266 41 
20241,163 41 
20251,001 41 
Thereafter7,206 401 
Total undiscounted cash flows13,330 643 
Less: Imputed interest(2,676)(120)
Present value of lease liabilities$10,654 $523 
Lease liabilities, current$1,023 $54 
Lease liabilities, non-current9,631 469 
Present value of lease liabilities$10,654 $523 
Schedule of Supplemental Cash Flow Information Supplemental cash flow information related to leases for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 are as follows (in millions):
December 31,
20202019
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:
     Operating cash flows for operating leases$1,208 $902 
     Operating cash flows for finance leases$14 $12 
     Financing cash flows for finance leases$604 $552 
Lease liabilities arising from obtaining right-of-use assets:
     Operating leases$1,158 $5,081 
     Finance leases$121 $193 
v3.20.4
Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]  
Schedule of Changes in Carrying Amount of Goodwill
The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 are as follows (in millions):
Balance as of December 31, 2018$18,301 
Goodwill acquired408 
Effect of currency translation adjustment
Balance as of December 31, 201918,715 
Goodwill acquired322 
Effect of currency translation adjustment13 
Balance as of December 31, 2020$19,050 
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets
The following table sets forth the major categories of the intangible assets and the weighted-average remaining useful lives for those assets that are not already fully amortized (in millions):
December 31, 2020December 31, 2019
Weighted-Average Remaining Useful Lives (in years)Gross Carrying AmountAccumulated AmortizationNet Carrying AmountGross Carrying AmountAccumulated AmortizationNet Carrying Amount
Acquired users0.8$2,057 $(1,840)$217 $2,056 $(1,550)$506 
Acquired technology2.81,297 (1,088)209 1,158 (986)172 
Acquired patents4.0805 (677)128 805 (625)180 
Trade names1.4636 (622)14 635 (604)31 
Other3.2223 (168)55 162 (157)
Total intangible assets$5,018 $(4,395)$623 $4,816 $(3,922)$894 
Schedule of Estimated Amortization Expense for Unamortized Acquired Intangible Assets
As of December 31, 2020, expected amortization expense for the unamortized acquired intangible assets for the next five years and thereafter is as follows (in millions):
2021$387 
2022121 
202353 
202429 
202517 
Thereafter16 
Total$623 
v3.20.4
Liabilities (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities [Abstract]  
Schedule of Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities
The components of accrued expenses and other current liabilities are as follows (in millions):
December 31,
20202019
Legal-related accruals (1)
$1,622 $5,998 
Accrued compensation and benefits2,609 1,704 
Accrued property and equipment1,414 1,082 
Accrued taxes2,038 624 
Other current liabilities3,469 2,327 
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities$11,152 $11,735 
_________________________
(1)Includes accrued legal settlements and fines as well as other legal fees. In 2020 and 2019, the amounts include accrued legal settlement for Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA) of $650 million and $550 million, respectively. In 2019, the amount includes accrued legal settlements for U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) of $5.0 billion. For further information, see Legal and Related Matters in Note 12 — Commitments and Contingencies.
Schedule of Other Liabilities
The components of other liabilities are as follows (in millions):
December 31,
20202019
Income tax payable$5,025 $5,651 
Other liabilities1,389 2,094 
Other liabilities$6,414 $7,745 
v3.20.4
Stockholders' Equity (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Equity [Abstract]  
Schedule of Restricted Stock Units Award Activity
The following table summarizes the activities for our unvested RSUs for the year ended December 31, 2020:
Number of SharesWeighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
(in thousands)
Unvested at December 31, 201978,851 $165.74 
Granted62,032 $188.73 
Vested(38,857)$162.27 
Forfeited(5,293)$165.72 
Unvested at December 31, 202096,733 $181.88 
v3.20.4
Interest and Other Income, Net (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract]  
Schedule of Interest and Other Income, Net
The following table presents the detail of interest and other income, net, is as follows (in millions):
Year Ended December 31,
202020192018
Interest income, net$672 $904 $652 
Foreign currency exchange losses, net(129)(105)(213)
Other income (expense), net(34)27 
Interest and other income, net$509 $826 $448 
v3.20.4
Income Taxes (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]  
Schedule of Components of Income Before Provision for Income Taxes
The components of income before provision for income taxes are as follows (in millions):
 Year Ended December 31, 
 202020192018
Domestic$24,233 $5,317 $8,800 
Foreign8,947 19,495 16,561 
Income before provision for income taxes$33,180 $24,812 $25,361 
Schedule of Provision for Income Taxes The provision for income taxes consisted of the following (in millions):
 Year Ended December 31, 
 202020192018
Current:   
Federal$3,297 $4,321 $1,747 
State523 565 176 
Foreign1,211 1,481 1,031 
Total current tax expense5,031 6,367 2,954 
Deferred:   
Federal(859)(39)316 
State(122)19 34 
Foreign(16)(20)(55)
Total deferred tax (benefits)/expense(997)(40)295 
Provision for income taxes$4,034 $6,327 $3,249 
Schedule of Reconciliation of U.S. Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate to Effective Tax Rate
A reconciliation of the U.S. federal statutory income tax rates to our effective tax rate is as follows (in percentages):
 Year Ended December 31, 
 202020192018
U.S. federal statutory income tax rate21.0 %21.0 %21.0 %
State income taxes, net of federal benefit0.8 1.8 0.7 
Research and development tax credits(1.3)(0.8)(1.0)
Share-based compensation0.2 4.5 0.3 
Excess tax benefits related to share-based compensation(1.6)(0.7)(2.6)
Foreign-derived intangible income deduction(1.9)— — 
Effect of non-U.S. operations(2.4)(5.8)(5.9)
Non-deductible FTC settlement accrual— 4.5 — 
Research and development capitalization(3.0)— — 
Other0.4 1.0 0.3 
Effective tax rate12.2 %25.5 %12.8 %
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities
Our deferred tax assets (liabilities) are as follows (in millions):
 December 31, 
 20202019
Deferred tax assets:  
Net operating loss carryforward$2,437 $2,051 
Tax credit carryforward1,055 1,333 
Share-based compensation243 135 
Accrued expenses and other liabilities1,108 798 
Lease liabilities2,058 1,999 
Capitalized research and development1,922 — 
Other340 149 
Total deferred tax assets9,163 6,465 
Less: valuation allowance(1,218)(1,012)
Deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowance7,945 5,453 
Deferred tax liabilities:  
Depreciation and amortization(3,811)(2,387)
Right-of-use assets(1,876)(1,910)
Total deferred tax liabilities(5,687)(4,297)
Net deferred tax assets$2,258 $1,156 
Schedule of Gross Unrecognized Tax Benefits Roll Forward
The following table reflects changes in the gross unrecognized tax benefits (in millions):
 Year Ended December 31, 
 202020192018
Gross unrecognized tax benefits ‑ beginning of period$7,863 $4,678 $3,870 
Increases related to prior year tax positions356 2,309 457 
Decreases related to prior year tax positions(253)(525)(396)
Increases related to current year tax positions1,045 1,402 831 
Decreases related to settlements of prior year tax positions(319)(1)(84)
Gross unrecognized tax benefits ‑ end of period$8,692 $7,863 $4,678 
v3.20.4
Geographical Information (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Segments, Geographical Areas [Abstract]  
Schedule of Revenue and Property and Equipment by Geographic Area
The following table sets forth our long-lived assets by geographic area, which consist of property and equipment, net and operating lease right-of-use assets, net (in millions):
 December 31,
 20202019
Long-lived assets:  
United States$43,128 $35,858 
Rest of the world(1)
11,853 8,925 
Total long-lived assets$54,981 $44,783 
_________________________
(1)No individual country, other than disclosed above, exceeded 10% of our total long-lived assets for any period presented.
v3.20.4
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Narrative (Details)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
segment
Dec. 31, 2019
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2018
USD ($)
Summary of Accounting Policies      
Advertising expense $ 2,260 $ 1,570 $ 1,100
Equity investments 6,234 86  
Accounts receivable 11,335 9,518  
Allowance for credit loss 114 92  
Cumulative translation gain (loss), net of tax 439 (617)  
Foreign currency exchange losses, net $ (129) $ (105) $ (213)
Number of reporting segments | segment 1    
Number of operating segments | segment 1    
Network equipment | Minimum      
Summary of Accounting Policies      
Useful life of property and equipment 3 years    
Network equipment | Maximum      
Summary of Accounting Policies      
Useful life of property and equipment 20 years    
Buildings | Minimum      
Summary of Accounting Policies      
Useful life of property and equipment 3 years    
Buildings | Maximum      
Summary of Accounting Policies      
Useful life of property and equipment 30 years    
Computer software, office equipment and other | Minimum      
Summary of Accounting Policies      
Useful life of property and equipment 2 years    
Computer software, office equipment and other | Maximum      
Summary of Accounting Policies      
Useful life of property and equipment 5 years    
Finance lease right-of-use assets | Minimum      
Summary of Accounting Policies      
Useful life of property and equipment 3 years    
Finance lease right-of-use assets | Maximum      
Summary of Accounting Policies      
Useful life of property and equipment 20 years    
Revenue from contract with customer benchmark | Geographic concentration risk | United States      
Summary of Accounting Policies      
Concentration risk percentage (in percentage) 42.00% 43.00% 43.00%
v3.20.4
Revenue - Schedule of Disaggregation of Revenue (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 85,965 $ 70,697 $ 55,838
US & Canada      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 38,433 32,206 25,727
Europe      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 20,349 16,826 13,631
Asia-Pacific      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 19,848 15,406 11,733
Rest of World      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 7,335 6,259 4,747
United States      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 36,250 30,230 24,100
Advertising      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 84,169 69,655 55,013
Other revenue      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 1,796 $ 1,042 $ 825
v3.20.4
Revenue - Schedule of Deferred Revenue and Deposits (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]    
Deferred revenue $ 335 $ 234
Deposits 47 35
Total deferred revenue and deposits $ 382 $ 269
v3.20.4
Earnings per Share (Details) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, shares in Millions, $ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Numerator      
Net income $ 29,146 $ 18,485 $ 22,112
Less: Net income attributable to participating securities 0 0 (1)
Net income attributable to common stockholders $ 29,146 $ 18,485 $ 22,111
Denominator      
Number of shares used for basic EPS computation (in shares) 2,851 2,854 2,890
Basic EPS (in dollars per share) $ 10.22 $ 6.48 $ 7.65
Numerator      
Net income attributable to common stockholders $ 29,146 $ 18,485 $ 22,111
Denominator      
Number of shares used for basic EPS computation (in shares) 2,851 2,854 2,890
Number of shares used for diluted EPS computation (in shares) 2,888 2,876 2,921
Diluted EPS (in dollars per share) $ 10.09 $ 6.43 $ 7.57
Class A      
Numerator      
Net income $ 24,607 $ 15,569 $ 18,411
Less: Net income attributable to participating securities 0 0 (1)
Net income attributable to common stockholders $ 24,607 $ 15,569 $ 18,410
Denominator      
Weighted-average shares outstanding (in shares) 2,407 2,404 2,406
Number of shares used for basic EPS computation (in shares) 2,407 2,404 2,406
Basic EPS (in dollars per share) $ 10.22 $ 6.48 $ 7.65
Numerator      
Net income attributable to common stockholders $ 24,607 $ 15,569 $ 18,410
Reallocation of net income attributable to participating securities 0 0 1
Reallocation of net income as a result of conversion of Class B to Class A common stock 4,539 2,916 3,701
Reallocation of net income to Class B common stock 0 0 0
Net income for diluted EPS $ 29,146 $ 18,485 $ 22,112
Denominator      
Number of shares used for basic EPS computation (in shares) 2,407 2,404 2,406
Conversion of Class B to Class A common stock (in shares) 444 450 484
Share based payment arrangements (in shares) 37 22 31
Number of shares used for diluted EPS computation (in shares) 2,888 2,876 2,921
Diluted EPS (in dollars per share) $ 10.09 $ 6.43 $ 7.57
Class B      
Numerator      
Net income $ 4,539 $ 2,916 $ 3,701
Less: Net income attributable to participating securities 0 0 0
Net income attributable to common stockholders $ 4,539 $ 2,916 $ 3,701
Denominator      
Weighted-average shares outstanding (in shares) 444 450 484
Number of shares used for basic EPS computation (in shares) 444 450 484
Basic EPS (in dollars per share) $ 10.22 $ 6.48 $ 7.65
Numerator      
Net income attributable to common stockholders $ 4,539 $ 2,916 $ 3,701
Reallocation of net income attributable to participating securities 0 0 0
Reallocation of net income as a result of conversion of Class B to Class A common stock 0 0 0
Reallocation of net income to Class B common stock (58) (18) (16)
Net income for diluted EPS $ 4,481 $ 2,898 $ 3,685
Denominator      
Number of shares used for basic EPS computation (in shares) 444 450 484
Conversion of Class B to Class A common stock (in shares) 0 0 0
Share based payment arrangements (in shares) 0 1 3
Number of shares used for diluted EPS computation (in shares) 444 451 487
Diluted EPS (in dollars per share) $ 10.09 $ 6.43 $ 7.57
v3.20.4
Cash and Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities - Schedule of Cash and Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities      
Cash and cash equivalents $ 17,576 $ 19,079 $ 10,019
Marketable securities 44,378 35,776  
Total cash and cash equivalents and marketable securities 61,954 54,855  
Cash      
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities      
Cash and cash equivalents 6,488 4,735  
Money market funds      
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities      
Cash and cash equivalents 9,755 12,787  
U.S. government securities      
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities      
Cash and cash equivalents 1,016 815  
U.S. government agency securities      
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities      
Cash and cash equivalents 0 444  
Certificate of deposits and time deposits      
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities      
Cash and cash equivalents 305 217  
Corporate debt securities      
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities      
Cash and cash equivalents 12 81  
U.S. government securities      
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities      
Marketable securities 20,921 18,679  
U.S. government agency securities      
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities      
Marketable securities 11,698 6,712  
Corporate debt securities      
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities      
Marketable securities $ 11,759 $ 10,385  
v3.20.4
Cash and Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Cash and Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities [Abstract]    
Gross unrealized gains on marketable securities $ 641 $ 205
v3.20.4
Cash and Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities - Schedule of Contractual Maturities of Debt Securities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Cash and Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities [Abstract]    
Due in one year $ 12,826 $ 12,803
Due after one year to five years 31,552 22,973
Total $ 44,378 $ 35,776
v3.20.4
Equity Investments (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Jul. 07, 2020
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Equity Investments Without Readily Determinable Fair Value [Roll Forward]        
Balance as of December 31, 2019   $ 86    
Payments to acquire equity investments   6,361 $ 61 $ 25
Adjustments   1    
Balance as of December 31, 2020   6,234 $ 86  
Jio        
Equity Investments Without Readily Determinable Fair Value [Roll Forward]        
Payments to acquire equity investments $ 5,820 5,824    
Other investments        
Equity Investments Without Readily Determinable Fair Value [Roll Forward]        
Other investments   $ 323    
v3.20.4
Fair Value Measurement - Assets Measured At Fair Value (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Marketable securities $ 44,378 $ 35,776
Total cash equivalents and marketable securities 55,466 50,120
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Total cash equivalents and marketable securities 43,390 39,437
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Total cash equivalents and marketable securities 12,076 10,683
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Total cash equivalents and marketable securities 0 0
Money market funds    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Cash equivalents 9,755 12,787
Money market funds | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Cash equivalents 9,755 12,787
Money market funds | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Cash equivalents 0 0
Money market funds | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Cash equivalents 0 0
U.S. government securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Cash equivalents 1,016 815
U.S. government securities | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Cash equivalents 1,016 815
U.S. government securities | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Cash equivalents 0 0
U.S. government securities | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Cash equivalents 0 0
U.S. government agency securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Cash equivalents   444
U.S. government agency securities | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Cash equivalents   444
U.S. government agency securities | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Cash equivalents   0
U.S. government agency securities | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Cash equivalents   0
Certificate of deposits and time deposits    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Cash equivalents 305 217
Certificate of deposits and time deposits | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Cash equivalents 0 0
Certificate of deposits and time deposits | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Cash equivalents 305 217
Certificate of deposits and time deposits | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Cash equivalents 0 0
Corporate debt securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Cash equivalents 12 81
Corporate debt securities | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Cash equivalents 0 0
Corporate debt securities | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Cash equivalents 12 81
Corporate debt securities | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Cash equivalents 0 0
U.S. government securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Marketable securities 20,921 18,679
U.S. government securities | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Marketable securities 20,921 18,679
U.S. government securities | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Marketable securities 0 0
U.S. government securities | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Marketable securities 0 0
U.S. government agency securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Marketable securities 11,698 6,712
U.S. government agency securities | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Marketable securities 11,698 6,712
U.S. government agency securities | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Marketable securities 0 0
U.S. government agency securities | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Marketable securities 0 0
Corporate debt securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Marketable securities 11,759 10,385
Corporate debt securities | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Marketable securities 0 0
Corporate debt securities | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Marketable securities 11,759 10,385
Corporate debt securities | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Marketable securities $ 0 $ 0
v3.20.4
Fair Value Measurement - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Jul. 07, 2020
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis        
Payments to acquire equity investments   $ 6,361 $ 61 $ 25
Jio Platforms Limited        
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis        
Payments to acquire equity investments $ 5,820 $ 5,824    
v3.20.4
Property and Equipment (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Property, Plant and Equipment      
Finance lease right-of-use assets, gross $ 2,295 $ 1,635  
Property, equipment and finance lease right-of-use assets, gross 61,051 45,986  
Less: Accumulated depreciation (15,418) (10,663)  
Property and equipment, net 45,633 35,323  
Depreciation expense 6,390 5,180 $ 3,680
Land      
Property, Plant and Equipment      
Property and equipment, gross 1,326 1,097  
Buildings      
Property, Plant and Equipment      
Property and equipment, gross 17,360 11,226  
Leasehold improvements      
Property, Plant and Equipment      
Property and equipment, gross 4,321 3,112  
Network equipment      
Property, Plant and Equipment      
Property and equipment, gross 22,003 17,004  
Depreciation expense 4,580 3,830 $ 2,940
Computer software, office equipment and other      
Property, Plant and Equipment      
Property and equipment, gross 2,458 1,813  
Construction in progress      
Property, Plant and Equipment      
Property and equipment, gross $ 11,288 $ 10,099  
v3.20.4
Leases - Components of Lease Cost and Supplementary Info (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Finance lease cost    
Amortization of right-of-use assets $ 259 $ 195
Interest 14 12
Operating lease cost 1,391 1,139
Variable lease cost and other, net 269 160
Total lease cost $ 1,933 $ 1,506
Weighted-average remaining lease term    
Operating leases 12 years 2 months 12 days 13 years
Finance leases 14 years 10 months 24 days 15 years 3 months 18 days
Weighted-average discount rate    
Operating leases 3.10% 3.20%
Finance leases 2.90% 3.10%
v3.20.4
Leases - Schedule of Maturities of Lease Liabilities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Operating Leases    
2021 $ 1,300  
2022 1,394  
2023 1,266  
2024 1,163  
2025 1,001  
Thereafter 7,206  
Total undiscounted cash flows 13,330  
Less: Imputed interest (2,676)  
Present value of lease liabilities 10,654  
Lease liabilities, current 1,023 $ 800
Lease liabilities, non-current 9,631 $ 9,524
Finance Leases    
2021 68  
2022 51  
2023 41  
2024 41  
2025 41  
Thereafter 401  
Total undiscounted cash flows 643  
Less: Imputed interest (120)  
Present value of lease liabilities 523  
Lease liabilities, current 54  
Lease liabilities, non-current $ 469  
v3.20.4
Leases - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2018
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]    
Operating lease expense   $ 629
Operating lease not yet commenced $ 7,410  
Finance lease not yet commenced $ 443  
Minimum    
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]    
Lease not yet commenced, term 1 year  
Maximum    
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]    
Lease not yet commenced, term 30 years  
v3.20.4
Leases - Schedule of Supplemental Cash Flow (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:      
Operating cash flows for operating leases $ 1,208 $ 902  
Operating cash flows for finance leases 14 12  
Financing cash flows for finance leases 604 552 $ 0
Lease liabilities arising from obtaining right-of-use assets:      
Operating leases 1,158 5,081  
Finance leases $ 121 $ 193  
v3.20.4
Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Schedule of Change in Carrying Amount (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Goodwill [Roll Forward]    
Goodwill beginning of period $ 18,715 $ 18,301
Goodwill acquired 322 408
Effect of currency translation adjustment 13 6
Goodwill end of period $ 19,050 $ 18,715
v3.20.4
Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Schedule of Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract]      
Gross Carrying Amount $ 5,018 $ 4,816  
Accumulated Amortization (4,395) (3,922)  
Total 623 894  
Amortization expense $ 473 562 $ 640
Acquired users      
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]      
Weighted-Average Remaining Useful Lives (in years) 9 months 18 days    
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract]      
Gross Carrying Amount $ 2,057 2,056  
Accumulated Amortization (1,840) (1,550)  
Total $ 217 506  
Acquired technology      
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]      
Weighted-Average Remaining Useful Lives (in years) 2 years 9 months 18 days    
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract]      
Gross Carrying Amount $ 1,297 1,158  
Accumulated Amortization (1,088) (986)  
Total $ 209 172  
Acquired patents      
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]      
Weighted-Average Remaining Useful Lives (in years) 4 years    
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract]      
Gross Carrying Amount $ 805 805  
Accumulated Amortization (677) (625)  
Total $ 128 180  
Trade names      
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]      
Weighted-Average Remaining Useful Lives (in years) 1 year 4 months 24 days    
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract]      
Gross Carrying Amount $ 636 635  
Accumulated Amortization (622) (604)  
Total $ 14 31  
Other      
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]      
Weighted-Average Remaining Useful Lives (in years) 3 years 2 months 12 days    
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract]      
Gross Carrying Amount $ 223 162  
Accumulated Amortization (168) (157)  
Total $ 55 $ 5  
v3.20.4
Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Schedule of Amortization Expense (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Maturity Schedule [Abstract]    
2021 $ 387  
2022 121  
2023 53  
2024 29  
2025 17  
Thereafter 16  
Total $ 623 $ 894
v3.20.4
Liabilities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]    
Legal-related accruals $ 1,622 $ 5,998
Accrued compensation and benefits 2,609 1,704
Accrued property and equipment 1,414 1,082
Accrued taxes 2,038 624
Other current liabilities 3,469 2,327
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 11,152 11,735
Other Liabilities [Abstract]    
Income tax payable 5,025 5,651
Other liabilities 1,389 2,094
Other liabilities $ 6,414 $ 7,745
v3.20.4
Long-term Debt - Borrowings (Details) - Revolving Credit Facility - USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 24, 2020
May 31, 2016
Debt Instrument      
Line of credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity     $ 2,000,000,000.0
Line of credit facility, amount outstanding $ 0 $ 0  
v3.20.4
Commitments and Contingencies (Details)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Jul. 27, 2018
claim
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
Jul. 22, 2020
USD ($)
Jan. 15, 2020
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2019
USD ($)
Jul. 31, 2019
USD ($)
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure            
Non-cancelable contractual commitment   $ 7,500        
Contractual obligation, period   5 years        
Number of class actions filed | claim 2          
United States Federal Trade Commission Inquiry            
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure            
Accrued FTC and other settlements           $ 5,000
Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act            
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure            
Accrued FTC and other settlements   $ 650   $ 550 $ 550  
Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act | Settled Litigation            
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure            
Accrued FTC and other settlements     $ 650      
v3.20.4
Stockholders' Equity - Common Stock Narrative (Details)
Dec. 31, 2020
vote
$ / shares
shares
Dec. 31, 2019
$ / shares
shares
Class of Stock    
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) | $ / shares $ 0.000006 $ 0.000006
Class A Common Stock    
Class of Stock    
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares) 5,000,000,000 5,000,000,000
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) | $ / shares $ 0.000006  
Common stock, number of votes by class | vote 1  
Common stock, shares, issued (in shares) 2,406,000,000 2,407,000,000
Common stock, shares, outstanding (in shares) 2,406,000,000 2,407,000,000
Class B Common Stock    
Class of Stock    
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares) 4,141,000,000 4,141,000,000
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) | $ / shares $ 0.000006  
Common stock, number of votes by class | vote 10  
Common stock, shares, issued (in shares) 443,000,000 445,000,000
Common stock, shares, outstanding (in shares) 443,000,000 445,000,000
v3.20.4
Stockholders' Equity - Share Repurchase Program Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
shares in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Jan. 27, 2021
Jan. 29, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Class of Stock        
Share repurchase program, authorized amount       $ 4,900,000,000
Shares repurchased (in shares) 27      
Shares repurchased $ 6,300,000,000      
Shares available for repurchase $ 8,600,000,000      
Stock repurchase program, increase in authorized amount     $ 10,000,000,000.00  
Subsequent Event        
Class of Stock        
Stock repurchase program, increase in authorized amount   $ 25,000,000,000    
v3.20.4
Stockholders' Equity - Share-based Compensation Plans Narrative (Details)
12 Months Ended
Jan. 01, 2021
shares
Dec. 31, 2020
plans
shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award    
Share-based employee compensation plans, number | plans   1
2012 Plan    
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award    
2012 equity incentive plan shares reserved for future issuance (in shares)   129,000,000
Shares reserved for issuance increase (in percentage)   2.50%
Subsequent Event    
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award    
Shares reserved for issuance (in shares) 16,000,000  
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) | 2012 Plan    
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award    
Share-based compensation arrangement by share-based payment award, award vesting period   4 years
v3.20.4
Stockholders' Equity - RSU Award Activity (Details) - Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)
shares in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
$ / shares
shares
Number of Shares  
Unvested at beginning of period (in shares) | shares 78,851
Granted (in shares) | shares 62,032
Vested (in shares) | shares (38,857)
Forfeited (in shares) | shares (5,293)
Unvested at end of period (in shares) | shares 96,733
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value  
Unvested at beginning of period (in dollars per share) | $ / shares $ 165.74
Granted (in dollars per share) | $ / shares 188.73
Vested (in dollars per share) | $ / shares 162.27
Forfeited (in dollars per share) | $ / shares 165.72
Unvested at end of period (in dollars per share) | $ / shares $ 181.88
v3.20.4
Stockholders' Equity - Additional Award Disclosures Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award      
Future period share-based compensation expense $ 16,500    
Future period share-based compensation expense period of recognition (in years) 3 years    
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award      
Fair value of vested RSUs $ 9,380 $ 6,010 $ 7,570
v3.20.4
Interest and Other Income, Net (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract]      
Interest income, net $ 672 $ 904 $ 652
Foreign currency exchange losses, net (129) (105) (213)
Other income (expense), net (34) 27 9
Interest and other income, net $ 509 $ 826 $ 448
v3.20.4
Income Taxes - Schedule for Income Before Income Tax (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]      
Domestic $ 24,233 $ 5,317 $ 8,800
Foreign 8,947 19,495 16,561
Income before provision for income taxes $ 33,180 $ 24,812 $ 25,361
v3.20.4
Income Taxes - Schedule of Provision for Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Current:      
Federal $ 3,297 $ 4,321 $ 1,747
State 523 565 176
Foreign 1,211 1,481 1,031
Total current tax expense 5,031 6,367 2,954
Deferred:      
Federal (859) (39) 316
State (122) 19 34
Foreign (16) (20) (55)
Total deferred tax (benefits)/expense (997) (40) 295
Provision for income taxes $ 4,034 $ 6,327 $ 3,249
v3.20.4
Income Taxes - Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation (Details)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations, Tax Rate Reconciliation [Abstract]      
U.S. federal statutory income tax rate 21.00% 21.00% 21.00%
State income taxes, net of federal benefit 0.80% 1.80% 0.70%
Research and development tax credits (1.30%) (0.80%) (1.00%)
Share-based compensation 0.20% 4.50% 0.30%
Excess tax benefits related to share-based compensation (1.60%) (0.70%) (2.60%)
Foreign-derived intangible income deduction (0.019) 0 0
Effect of non-U.S. operations (2.40%) (5.80%) (5.90%)
Non-deductible FTC settlement accrual 0.00% 4.50% 0.00%
Research and development capitalization (3.00%) 0.00% 0.00%
Other 0.40% 1.00% 0.30%
Effective tax rate 12.20% 25.50% 12.80%
v3.20.4
Income Taxes - Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Deferred tax assets:    
Net operating loss carryforward $ 2,437 $ 2,051
Tax credit carryforward 1,055 1,333
Share-based compensation 243 135
Accrued expenses and other liabilities 1,108 798
Lease liabilities 2,058 1,999
Capitalized research and development 1,922 0
Other 340 149
Total deferred tax assets 9,163 6,465
Less: valuation allowance (1,218) (1,012)
Deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowance 7,945 5,453
Deferred tax liabilities:    
Depreciation and amortization (3,811) (2,387)
Right-of-use assets (1,876) (1,910)
Total deferred tax liabilities (5,687) (4,297)
Net deferred tax assets $ 2,258 $ 1,156
v3.20.4
Income Taxes - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
1 Months Ended 3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Oct. 30, 2019
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Dec. 31, 2017
Income Tax Disclosure            
Valuation allowance, deferred tax assets   $ 1,012 $ 1,218 $ 1,012    
Cumulative stock ownership change threshold (in percentage)     50.00%      
Change in ownership percentage over period     3 years      
Unrecognized tax benefits, interest and penalties accrued   747 $ 774 747    
Unrecognized tax benefits   7,863 8,692 7,863 $ 4,678 $ 3,870
Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact effective tax rate     4,850      
Provision for income taxes     4,034 $ 6,327 $ 3,249  
Internal Revenue Service (IRS)            
Income Tax Disclosure            
Operating loss carryforwards     10,620      
Tax credit carryforward     424      
State and Local Jurisdiction            
Income Tax Disclosure            
Operating loss carryforwards     2,190      
Tax credit carryforward     2,650      
Tax Year 2010 | Internal Revenue Service (IRS)            
Income Tax Disclosure            
Income tax examination, estimate of possible additional tax liability $ 9,000          
Tax Years 2011 Through 2013 | Internal Revenue Service (IRS)            
Income Tax Disclosure            
Income tax examination, estimate of possible additional tax liability     $ 680      
Altera Corp V Commissioner            
Income Tax Disclosure            
Provision for income taxes   $ 1,110        
v3.20.4
Income Taxes - Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits      
Gross unrecognized tax benefits ‑ beginning of period $ 7,863 $ 4,678 $ 3,870
Increases related to prior year tax positions 356 2,309 457
Decreases related to prior year tax positions (253) (525) (396)
Increases related to current year tax positions 1,045 1,402 831
Decreases related to settlements of prior year tax positions (319) (1) (84)
Gross unrecognized tax benefits ‑ end of period $ 8,692 $ 7,863 $ 4,678
v3.20.4
Geographical Information - Schedule of Property and Equipment (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Area    
Long-lived assets $ 54,981 $ 44,783
United States    
Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Area    
Long-lived assets 43,128 35,858
Rest of the world    
Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Area    
Long-lived assets $ 11,853 $ 8,925
v3.20.4
Label Element Value
Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets [Member]  
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents us-gaap_RestrictedCashAndCashEquivalents $ 241,000,000
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents us-gaap_RestrictedCashAndCashEquivalents 10,000,000
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents us-gaap_RestrictedCashAndCashEquivalents 8,000,000
Other Assets [Member]  
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents us-gaap_RestrictedCashAndCashEquivalents 192,000,000
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents us-gaap_RestrictedCashAndCashEquivalents 95,000,000
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents us-gaap_RestrictedCashAndCashEquivalents $ 137,000,000