It is clear that Google would like to compete with Skype with their Google Voice product. I’m just not sure trying to grow Google Voice organically will work. The closest analogy I can think of is very quick and clear cut competition between Google Video and Youtube, which eventually led to the acquisition of Youtube by Google.
- Google tried with Google Video but realised that Youtube’s brand had too much of a lead
- Google Search/Account id allowed Google a unique chance to monetise Youtube
- Youtube is a massive web property, for Google not to have control could be a threat in the future
I believe all three of the above reasons can be applied to a Google purchase of Skype. While Google Voice is a good product I think Skype has too much of a brand lead for Gvoice to ever take over. To monetise Skype Google could push Skype into their Google accounts and search results while inserting ad words into Skype calls. They could easily keep the Google Voice brand for their Enterprise apps and keep the Skype brand for consumers.
Imagine a Skype/Youtube and Google TV combination, which can be transferred to a desktop and mobile phone platform.
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