When it comes to the Web 2.0 playground, Facebook has emerged as the quiet, over-achiever.
Long being overshadowed because of its simplicity, Facebook has certainly emerged as the ‘next big thing’ in the social networking space – with news released today that Microsoft has struck a deal to invest $240 million into the social networking portal.
The agreement echoes Facebook's enormous success throughout the past year, more than likely sparking Microsoft's eagerness to pay top dollar to build a tactical partnership.
News mediums and blogs have been flooded continuously this week with rumored talks between Facebook and Google regarding a possible deal - as Facebook is a major rival for advertising revenue.
It’s quite frightening to think that with a merger of this size between both Microsoft and Facebook, could eventually transform the social networking portal as a software platform or spin-off.
I see this as a spot of old fashioned ‘I’ll scratch your back if you scratch mine”.
Microsoft obtains a slice of the social networking action, while Facebook acquires access to Microsoft’s innovative technologies and advertisers – converting Facebook into a dominating, social media empire.
Everyone wins – including users.
I believe the possibilities are endless with Facebook development. Having recently co-created a Facebook Application - who’s to say Facebook won’t eventually progress to integrate e-commerce facilities and offer variations in online subscriptions?
Currently the ninth most visited website in the US (according to Hitwise), and the number 2 social networking portal behind MySpace – one question remains.
Will Microsoft’s partnership hinder or enhance Facebook’s success? Will users tune in or tune out to changes?
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