Microsoft completed its previously announced acquisition of Skype -- a deal valued at $8.5 billion.Microsoft states that its mission with the Skype business is "connecting all people across all devices." The current, free Skype service continues as before. Long term, Microsoft envisions tighter integration with its other platforms.
"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 CEO Tony Bates will assume the title of president of the Skype Division of Microsoft immediately, reporting directly to Ballmer.
Skype also noted that on some days it carries 300,000,000 minutes of video calling traffic.
- Skype was founded in 2002 by Niklas Zennstrom and Janus Friis and its initial release was in August of that same year. Skype was acquired by eBay in September 2005, and then acquired by an investment group led by Silver Lake in November 2009 for $2.75 billion.
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