In a true “as seen on TV” move, Microsoft has purchased Teleo, the startup provider of VoIP services common in nearly every VoIP provider, IM and even cable package. I know I’m not alone in asking this but have you ever turned on the TV on a Sunday morning and just questioned the sanity of people buying some of the crap people are advertising? It slices, it dices, it cuts tomatos and hammers!

So what kind of a hammer or tomato will Teleo help cut for Microsoft? The VoIP functionality is already provided in MSN and Windows Messenger. The SIP for corporate use is already provided in Office Communicator through Live Communication Server. The click-to-call is already part of PocketPC Windows Mobile 2003 SE. Voice, even video chat is available through just about every connected presence app out there.

So what is Microsoft up to? Is this just going to beef up the Messenger to help it fight Google Talk or is Microsoft entering the VoIP market? Looking at the Microsoft product portfolio though I hope they got the Carlton Sheet’s 30 day unconditional money-back waranty if they are not completely thrilled by the product
Update: Apparently BBC knows something that I don’t. Article goes on to talk about IM->Phone line chat which was available in MSN IM years ago. I remember using it. Then they restricted it to 5 minutes of free time so I find the story a little humorous.

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