Microsoft announces $8.5 billion acquisition of Skype
By
Nigel Brooks
May 10, 2011 -
Spetnik Technology News
Microsoft will acquire Skype for $8.5 billion.
In a move that is sure to send shockwaves throughout the industry, Microsoft recently announced it has agreed to acquire internet calling service provider Skype for $8.5 billion.
The announcement will likely come as bad news for Microsoft's competitors in the smartphone market, Apple and Google. Both have rolled out internet-based calling and/or video chat services in recent years. Now, with the acquisition of Skype, Microsoft will own the largest internet calling community on the planet.
Beyond smartphones, Microsoft also said it plans to incorporate Skype with a number of its enterprise productivity platforms, including Outlook and Lync. The software giant said it will continue to support Skype clients on non-Microsoft platforms as well.
"Microsoft and Skype share the vision of bringing software innovation and products to our customers," said Skype CEO Tony Bates. "Together, we will be able to accelerate Skype's plans to extend our global community and introduce new ways for everyone to communicate and collaborate."
The acquisition could have significant implications for enterprise users. While Skype has been a popular service among consumers, its integration with Microsoft products could also make it a useful videoconferencing solution for businesses, enabling them reduce travel costs while still connecting with employees and other companies.
Recent headlines:
The announcement will likely come as bad news for Microsoft's competitors in the smartphone market, Apple and Google. Both have rolled out internet-based calling and/or video chat services in recent years. Now, with the acquisition of Skype, Microsoft will own the largest internet calling community on the planet.
Beyond smartphones, Microsoft also said it plans to incorporate Skype with a number of its enterprise productivity platforms, including Outlook and Lync. The software giant said it will continue to support Skype clients on non-Microsoft platforms as well.
"Microsoft and Skype share the vision of bringing software innovation and products to our customers," said Skype CEO Tony Bates. "Together, we will be able to accelerate Skype's plans to extend our global community and introduce new ways for everyone to communicate and collaborate."
The acquisition could have significant implications for enterprise users. While Skype has been a popular service among consumers, its integration with Microsoft products could also make it a useful videoconferencing solution for businesses, enabling them reduce travel costs while still connecting with employees and other companies.
Recent headlines:
