Microsoft's acquisition of Skype gets approved by the FTC

As with any major company acquisition, Microsoft's purchase of Skype will need to be approved by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) first. According to a report from Reuters, the deal has passed a major hurdle and has been approved by the FTC. In other words, the FTC does not see any antitrust violations with Microsoft purchasing Skype, one of the world's most popular Voice over IP (VoIP) services. 

Microsoft first announced its plans to acquire Skype for $8.5 billion back in May. Since then, consumers have been trying to predict where Microsoft will integrate Skype services first – it seems the general consensus is Windows Phone 7, followed by the Windows desktop operating system. 

Microsoft will create a new division with Skype CEO Tony Bates assuming the role of president of the Microsoft Skype Division. He will report directly to Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer.