Microsoft Now Officially Owns Skype
Oct19Written by:
2011/10/19 08:53 AM 
Microsoft has officially closed its acquisition of Skype on Friday for roughly $8.5 Billion. Skype will become a new business unit within Microsoft.
The Internet and Skype have changed video calling for millions of people.
“Skype is a phenomenal product and brand that is loved by hundreds of millions of people around the world,” said Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer. “We look forward to working with the Skype team to create new ways for people to stay connected to family, friends, clients and colleagues — anytime, anywhere.”
Skype – Windows Phone 7
It is also rumoured that Skype will be included in the next Mango (Windows Phone 7) Update. This will surely increase Windows Phone 7 marketability and competiveness.
Microsoft will also now have contact with millions of non Microsoft users through the Skype user base. A very valuable bunch of data, don’t you think?
Skype is best known for linking families and friends in online video conversations across the world. "I'll Skype you," is now a common refrain. Microsoft prides itself for putting the computer into every home. The two seemed destined to be together.
Skype – Windows Integration
The next time you install a new version of windows, or upgrade, or even boot up, you might be asked if you want to install Skype as well.
If you use Microsoft's cloud service, Windows Live Essentials, you could see Skype popping up in applications like Hotmail and Writer. You could have one address book for both Hotmail and Skype.
Microsoft Office could also be Skype-enabled. You could for example have the choice to email or Skype your contacts!
In the gaming realm, Skype integration could be used to enhance Microsoft's Xbox LIVE and Kinect offerings by expanding the voice and video capabilities that are already supported by these devices.
So what do you think of the Microsoft-Skype deal? For you is it Deal or No Deal? Please leave a comment in the comments section below.
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