Microsoft quietly rolls out ‘Microsoft SwiftKey Keyboard’ during lockdown years after the acquisition
I was composing a message with the SwiftKey keyboard when all of sudden, I notice ‘Microsoft Swiftkey’ (see image above) appear on my much-adored Google Pixel 3.
It was then I discovered Microsoft had acquired yet another technology firm to add to their portfolio; a third-party smart device keyboard provider. Their portfolio already includes the likes of Skype, which probably isn’t getting much attention these days due to Zoom, and Linkedin, which is arguably more important than ever due to the high unemployment and remote working levels following the Coronavirus pandemic.
Swiftkey was acquired in 2016 by Microsoft for a cool quarter of a billion dollars, just when you thought they were done shopping for new toys. There had been a few features available on the app before the ‘Microsoft Swiftkey’ label was revealed, including Microsoft Stickers, Microsoft Translator and Bing’s search functionality all integrated within the application. It clearly didn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out that this was another Microsoft Acquisition.
Why now during a Global lockdown in 2020?
I would suspect with more people being active on their smart devices (Tablet, Phones, etc) than ever before because of the outbreak, it may have been the perfect timing for Microsoft to get as many eyeballs as possible on this unveiling.
Why did they buy?
I’ve been an avid Swiftkey user ever since I made that switch from iOS to Android as my main Smartphone device back in around 2015. No matter what android device I upgraded or switched to, this app was always one of go-to apps because it had already learned my swipe patterns, making it easier to compose messages and words. This was a clever purchase by the Bill Gates founded company, because individuals who for example, use Google over Bing, will now find it a lot more convenient to begin using Microsoft’s products and services, now having access right at their fingertips.
Once again, Microsoft makes a ‘clean sweep’ in the world of M&A’s. They can finally make a fortune from products and services such as Bing, which have been swept under the carpet by Google and friends. They have gone from ‘Skyping’ to ’Swiping’.
Takeaway: Do not underestimate Microsoft .
Similar reading: Microsoft knocks Zoom out of the park with features you need now
