People are trying to figure the meaning of Microsoft buying Skype. So are we. Let the conversation begin.
Wireless carriers now funnel voice and data traffic over two separate networks and charge customers accordingly. In the not-so-distant future, analysts and industry executives say, all mobile services, including text messages and voice and video calls, will travel over data networks.
Microsoft’s recent $8.5 billion deal to buy Skype, the Internet calling service, could accelerate this change — one that is forcing wireless carriers to adapt. Services like Skype can cut into the carriers’ revenues because they offer easy ways to make phone calls, videoconference and send messages free over the Internet, encroaching on the ways that phone companies have traditionally made money.
1 Comment
Deepak Bhandari
Microsoft will try to incorporate Skype in its mobile ecosystem which is set for a boost after a strategic tie up with Nokia. Microsoft would look to integrate Skype with Xbox live to provide a better customer end experience on its upcoming windows mobile OS running devices. As the users move towards newer data consuming devices (read tablets), video is going to play a major part and Skype buy will surely help Microsoft grap a piece of the pie as Microsoft is set to commercially rollout its tablet OS in near future.
Also, it might be a significant move against Apple who’s facetime application is gaining traction amongst the iPhone and iPad users.