Microsoft buys Skype for $8.5 billion

Posted on Tuesday, May 10 2011 @ 21:54 CEST by Thomas De Maesschalck

Microsoft announced its biggest acquisition to date. The company has inked a deal to buy Internet phone service Skype for $8.5 billion, in a bid to improve its desktop software as well as to open up new opportunities in the mobile market.

Microsoft Corp (MSFT.O) plans to buy Internet phone service Skype for $8.5 billion, a rich price as it seeks to regain ground on growing rivals such as Google Inc (GOOG.O).

Microsoft's interest in the money-losing but popular service highlights a need to gain new customers for its Windows and Office software. Skype has 145 million users on average each month and has gained favor among small business users.

About the Author

Thomas De Maesschalck

Thomas has been messing with computer since early childhood and firmly believes the Internet is the best thing since sliced bread. Enjoys playing with new tech, is fascinated by science, and passionate about financial markets. When not behind a computer, he can be found with running shoes on or lifting heavy weights in the weight room.

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