Microsoft acquires Skype

Today it was announced that Microsoft acquired Skype, the online messaging service. The deal was for 8.5 Billion and what I didn't know what that Skype itself was almost a billion dollars in debt. I guess many people, including me, used the free version of the service and not any paid versions. I am surprised Microsoft pulled this move. Maybe they could rid skype of their debt. One thing is for sure though: Skype has become very popular with many businesses and even podcasters using the service. I just hope that this deal didn't turn out to be a bad move. I'm also curious to see what services by Microsoft will integrate more Skype functionality.