So, if Microsoft acquires Skype (per ABC News), how can it

[Skidmore]

screw it up? I just started using Skype this week and it is saving me money by allowing me daily contact with my daughter during a crucial time. I can just see the mighty hand of the market god turning something into a profit.

[liberal N proud]

1. Exactly what they are after - making profit from it

You will either have to subscribe or watch some damn advertising.

[customerserviceguy]

3. All of the 'free' stuff

is only free for a while, until they think they've got you hooked. Why do you think Facebook is valued at so very much money, for a site that didn't even exist ten years ago?

[Warren Stupidity]

4. skype is unable to survive as it is

which is why it is for sale.

[KharmaTrain]

2. Google's Offering Free Phone Calls...

Maybe I shouldn't mention this...it's a nice bargain. If you have a G-Mail account you can do much of the same as Skype with the added benefits of free phone calls to anywhere in the US and Canada. On Skype you currently have to pay for phone calls.

Skype has its advantages. I prefer the audio and video quality of Skype but would I pay to keep it? Probably not. And I don't think many others would as well. The money is to be made on web-ads and "extras" to the basic services.

Sheesh...ya think if Apple purchased Skype they wouldn't be looking or a way to prorietize and make money off it?

[tech9413]

5. I tried Skype on it's inital release

I wasn't impressed by the voice quality or reliability of service. I went to MagicJack and have been very pleased with the performance. The voice quality is 100% equal to land line and has been reliable for years. I only had one problem and the on-line customer support had me back in service within minutes.
I use VOIP only as a supplement to basic service land line. I can have reliable service from the land line at minimal cost (the phone company has to provide the power even if the mains go down) and I can avoid intra/interstate toll charges by using VOIP.

Back in 2001 I trained on a Siemens phone system that utilized VOIP and it was pretty impressive. I have to say that MJ is about the same quality.

As far as Skype and MS, they'll either improve or die. Either way it won't bother me.

[TransitJohn]

6. This is about video calling with Kinect.

It'll be available as long as you pay your monthly Xbox Live subscription, I'd guess.