Microsoft buys LinkedIn professional social network for $26 Billion

Microsoft just bought LinkedIn in a bombshell deal for an all-cash transaction valued at $26.2 billion inclusive of LinkedIn's net cash. LinkedIn will retain its distinct brand, culture and independence while Jeff Weiner will remain CEO of LinkedIn, reporting to Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft. LinkedIn is the world's largest and most valuable professional network and continues to build a strong and growing business.

Founded in 2002, LinkedIn is the world’s largest professional network on the Internet with more than 433 million members in over 200 countries and territories. It currently offers free as well as paid membership options that allows people to connect with business contacts as well as seek employment. What does Microsoft, a services and devices company, want with a social network whose growth has been somewhat quastionable of late?

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LinkedIn aims to boost site engagement with Newsle purchase

LinkedIn has just agreed to purchase alerts service Newsle for an undisclosed amount in order to boost the ability to track its users outside the website. It would also help users find out what other users are doing on LinkedIn. This acquisition seems in line with LinkedIn trying to bolster users’ engagement with their site.

“For example, knowing more about the people in your network—like when they’re mentioned in the news—can surface relevant insights that help you hit your next meeting with them out of the park,” said LinkedIn spokesman Ryan Roslansky.

Source: CNET

Apply anywhere and on any device with LinkedIn

LinkedIn is making it easy for you to apply for your dream job even when you’re on the go with the site’s new Apply button that appears on its new iOS and Android apps and on its mobile web version. This new Apply feature helps provide a simpler application process for job seekers and takes less than a minute to complete. You can check the blog post on the announcement for more information.

LinkedIn update for BlackBerry 10

LinkedIn just released a 10.1.4 for its BlackBerry 10 app. Some of the new features include more content on your Home Stream, automatic refreshing to keep your content up to date, LinkedIn updates instantly appear on your BBM profile, and improved search capability.