13 August 2010
Traditional media tycoon Rupert Murdoch and his company News Limited's attacks against every giant in the 'new media' are becoming too obviously cringing to let pass.
I've written before about the Australian-born American Murdoch taking on Google for publishing 'his news'. This time his target is VOIP giant Skype - the company that provides free voice calling to millions worldwide.
He is picking on its name, stating the use of the letters 'Sky' from 'Skype' is a breach of copyright against one of his media brands 'BSkyB'.
Skype has been around for many years - I have been using it for over 5 years - but Murdoch has chosen to wage his war when Skype is about to float on New York's NASDAQ for an estimated US$100 million.
I'm no lawyer. I am an avid user of products and services Murdoch has a hand in (especially Foxtel). But his suggestion that he owns the 'Sky' sounds comical. It sounds desperate.
Rupert should be ashamed and realise that his position as a filthy rich billionaire is safe. It is safe despite the fact that his title of 'media tycoon' is now officially revised to 'traditional media tycoon'.
Enjoy your life and leave Skype, Google and other 'new media tycoons' to be.