When Did Microsoft Buy Skype?
Microsoft, one of the world’s leading technology companies, has a history of acquiring and integrating various products and services to expand its portfolio. Among its numerous acquisitions, Microsoft’s purchase of Skype is a significant one. But when did this happen?
Early Days of Skype
Skype was first launched in 2004 by the Ukrainian-born Joss Whiteman, Steve Fishman, and Phil Marlowe. The initial version of Skype was a simple instant messaging and video conferencing application that allowed users to make voice and video calls using their computers or mobile phones. Here are some key milestones in Skype’s history:
- Skype 1.0 was released in 2005, and it quickly gained popularity as a free, open-source instant messaging service.
- Skype 4.0 was released in 2008, introducing video calls and improved security features.
- Skype for Android and iOS was released in 2010, making Skype available on mobile devices.
- Skype for Windows Phone was released in 2012, introducing Skype to the Windows Phone platform.
Microsoft’s Acquisition
In 2011, Microsoft announced its intention to acquire Skype for $8.5 billion. The acquisition was part of Microsoft’s efforts to expand its presence in the cloud computing and communication sectors. Here are some key reasons why Microsoft decided to acquire Skype:
- Microsoft’s cloud strategy: Microsoft aimed to make Skype a part of its cloud-based services, including Office 365, Azure, and Xbox Live.
- Increased competition: Microsoft saw Skype as a major competitor to its own video conferencing platform, Microsoft Teams.
- Enhanced Skype features: Microsoft aimed to integrate Skype’s features with its own services, such as contact lists and calendar integration.
Mergers and Acquisitions
After the acquisition, Microsoft invested heavily in revamping Skype, introducing new features and improving its user experience. Here are some key updates that followed:
- Skype 7.0 was released in 2013, introducing new contact lists, calendar integration, and improved security features.
- Skype for Windows 10 was released in 2015, introducing Skype to the Windows 10 operating system.
- Skype for Android 2.6.7 was released in 2016, introducing Skype to the Android mobile operating system.
- Skype for iOS 9.2.2 was released in 2016, introducing Skype to the iOS mobile operating system.
Impact of the Acquisition
The acquisition of Skype has had a significant impact on the company’s financial performance and user base. Here are some key financial and user statistics:
- Revenue growth: Skype’s revenue grew from $31 million in 2011 to $1.1 billion in 2017.
- User base: The user base of Skype expanded from 160 million in 2011 to 250 million in 2017.
- Partnerships: Microsoft has partnered with numerous companies, including Snapchat, WhatsApp, and WhatsApp Web, to enhance its communication services.
Conclusion
Microsoft’s acquisition of Skype in 2011 was a strategic move to expand its presence in the cloud computing and communication sectors. The acquisition has resulted in the development of new features, improved user experience, and increased competition in the market. While the acquisition has faced challenges, Microsoft has maintained its commitment to integrating Skype into its own services. As Microsoft continues to evolve its communication services, it is likely that Skype will remain a significant part of its portfolio.
Timeline:
- 2004: Skype is launched by Joss Whiteman, Steve Fishman, and Phil Marlowe.
- 2005: Skype 1.0 is released.
- 2011: Microsoft announces its intention to acquire Skype for $8.5 billion.
- 2012: Skype for Windows Phone is released.
- 2013: Skype 7.0 is released.
- 2015: Skype for Windows 10 is released.
- 2016: Skype for Android 2.6.7 is released.
- 2017: Skype for iOS 9.2.2 is released.