Η Microsoft just announced that it is buying social network LinkedIn for $26,2 billion. The transaction is expected to be completed in 2016.
Η company hasn't revealed exactly what it plans to do with LinkedIn or how it plans to integrate it into its services, but in a press release published today, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella assured that the social network will retain its “distinct brand name, its culture and independence".
In addition, Jeff Weiner, who is now LinkedIn's CEO, will continue to lead the company, but from now on he will report directly to Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella.
"OR team of LinkedIn has built a fantastic business centered on connection των επαγγελματιών του κόσμου,” ανέφερε ο Nadella. “Μαζί μπορούμε να επιταχύνουμε την ανάπτυξη του LinkedIn, όπως και του Microsoft Office 365 και του Dynamics καθώς επιδιώκουμε να ενδυναμώσουμε κάθε άτομο και organization on the planet."
Microsoft revealed that its board of directors unanimously approved the acquisition of LinkedIn, the social networking service it now has around 440 million users around the world. Satya Nadella is clearly aiming to join Office 365 and other business solutions to connect users to the workplace, and this is the first big market since Microsoft took over.
"Just as we have changed the way people connect, this relationship with Microsoft, and the integration of the cloud with the LinkedIn network, now gives us the opportunity to change the way people work," Weiner told today's press release.
"For the last 13 years, we have the unique opportunity to connect professionals to become more productive and successful, and I look forward to leading our team to the next chapter in our history."
