Wow, Microsoft just got exciting again! We’re hearing (like everybody else) that the company is in “serious” talks to acquire enterprise social network and our 410 Townsend Street neighbor Yammer — for a reported $1 billion.
I’ve independently heard from another source that Salesforce was also in acquisition talks with Yammer, but at this point I think everyone’s just constantly talking to everyone about buying everyone so that’s not surprising. But the Microsoft rumors are legit I’m hearing, though it’s unclear if a deal has been reached (Bloomberg is reporting that might happen as soon as tomorrow).
And as we’re all chattering about this at the TechCrunch office cooler, and yes, on Yammer, we get the following email telling us to head down to LA for a “major” Microsoft announcement. I can’t recall Microsoft ever being so mysterious … Then again, it doesn’t really have a history of announcing acquisitions like this (Skype was a press release, and that buy was billions of dollars).
One interesting tidbit that gives the “Yammer Acquisition Announcement” theory more credence: Yammer CEO David Sacks is having his big Snoop Dogg/French 18th Century costume 40th birthday bash (I know) in LA this weekend. So…. he’s already down there.
Update: Ina Fried is reporting that it’s actually about some tablet thing. God, so boring.
Full press invite below.
>> ———- Forwarded message ———-
>> From: MSEVENT
>> Date: Thu, Jun 14, 2012 at 12:01 PM
>> Subject: INVITATION – Microsoft Announcement & Event – Monday, June 18th
>> To: MSEVENT
>>Ill
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>> You are invited to an exclusive Microsoft media event in Los Angeles, California on Monday, June 18th. Doors open at 3:30 PM.
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>> This is an invitation only event and you are allowed to register up to one additional guest from your publication. All guests must be registered by replying below.
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>> Additional information regarding the specific venue, address and parking information will be sent via e-mail to registered attendees on Monday morning, June 18th, no later than 10:00 AM.
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>> This is a non-transferrable invitation, however, if you would like to send your local colleague in your place, please submit that name and it will be reviewed. If you would like to bring a photographer please register that person as your additional guest. Please note – still photography and video will be limited.
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>> All attendees must be registered with exact names and done so in advance, no later than Sunday, June 17th at 10:00 AM, Pacific. You will be responsible for securing your travel and lodging.
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>> Registration will be first come, first served.
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>> To confirm your registration and to register a guest, please respond to the below e-mail address with name, phone number, e-mail address and outlet affiliation.
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>> This will be a major Microsoft announcement – you will not want to miss it.