Reports are popping up all over the Internet indicating that Microsoft is buying Skype, the VoIP service that has enjoyed a tremendous amount of popularity but also a great deal of financial debt. In the deal, Microsoft will take on responsibility for the outstanding debt, in addition to the intellectual property issues that have arisen.
Nevertheless, for Microsoft, it looks like a win-win, as it continues its battle for the Internet against Google and others. Rumors were circulating that both Google and Facebook wanted Skype, but it looks like Microsoft may have offered the sweetest deal.
This is one of those acquisitions that might not make much financial sense, but it makes sense because of the technology Microsoft is acquiring, technology they can not only use for Microsoft Windows, but also for Windows Phone 7 and even Xbox Kinect. The possibilities for them are endless.
The real question users should be asking is if they will keep the core service in tact. Right now, Mac, Linux, and even Android and Blackberry users can use Skype for free. Will Microsoft continue to support all of these platforms?
Microsoft is paying $8.5 billion for Skype and will also take on its $686 million in debt. For the rest of the details, we will have to wait. What is certain is that Microsoft will do what is in their best interest and the interest of their core users, at least one would hope. Stay tuned for more information, as the situation develops.
Update: According to CNNMoney, Skype will continue to operate under current CEO Tony Bates as a business unit of Microsoft. Bates will report directly to Microsoft chief Steve Ballmer.
