Microsoft Set to Acquire Skype for over USD 7 B - Report

ballpen points to a screen showing the logos of US software company Microsoft and internet phone service Skype, Berlin, Germany 10 May 2011. According to media reports 10 May, Microsoft is close to a deal to buy Skype. Photo by EPA/BGNES

Microsoft is close to finalizing a deal to buy Internet phone company Skype Technologies for more than USD 7 B, and a deal could be announced by Tuesday, according to a news report.

Buying Skype would give Microsoft a recognized brand name on the Internet at a time when it is struggling to get more traction in the consumer market, The Wall Street Journal said in a report late Monday.

Microsoft and Skype could not be immediately reached for comment. Both companies declined to comment to the WSJ.

Facebook, Cisco, and Google were also considering partnering or acquiring Skype, according to earlier news reports.

Skype uses a technology called voice over Internet protocol, which treats calls as data like email messages and routes them over the Internet, rather than a traditional phone network.

Skype's software, which can be downloaded free, allows users to call other Skype users on computers or certain cellphones for free.

Skype users can also call land lines for a fee and conduct video calls.

We need your support so Novinite.com can keep delivering news and information about Bulgaria! Thank you!