Many people know Microsoft for products like Windows, Office, and Xbox. However, the company owns far more than most people realize.
Over the years, Microsoft has expanded its reach through strategic acquisitions, purchasing companies across software, gaming, cloud computing, and professional networking. As a result, several well-known brands now operate under Microsoft’s ownership while maintaining their own identity.
Here are five popular brands you may not have realized are owned by Microsoft.
1. GitHub
GitHub is one of the world’s most widely used platforms for software development and collaboration. It allows developers to host code, track revisions, and work together on projects efficiently.
Founded in 2007, GitHub quickly became essential infrastructure for developers and enterprise engineering teams. Microsoft acquired GitHub in 2018 for $7.5 billion, making it one of the company’s biggest acquisitions at the time.
Today, GitHub continues to grow rapidly and serves millions of developers and businesses worldwide.
2. LinkedIn
LinkedIn is the largest professional networking platform in the world, used by job seekers, recruiters, and businesses globally.
Founded in 2002 and launched in 2003, LinkedIn became the dominant platform for professional networking before Microsoft acquired it in 2016 for $26.2 billion.
Despite the acquisition, LinkedIn continues to operate largely as an independent platform, which is why many users do not realize Microsoft owns it.
3. Activision Blizzard
Activision Blizzard is one of the biggest gaming publishers in the world and owns major franchises including Call of Duty, World of Warcraft, Diablo, Overwatch, and Candy Crush.
Microsoft completed its acquisition of Activision Blizzard in 2023 for approximately $68.7 billion, marking the largest acquisition in the company’s history.
The deal significantly expanded Microsoft’s gaming portfolio and strengthened its competitive position in the gaming industry.
4. ZeniMax Media
ZeniMax Media is the parent company of several major gaming studios, including Bethesda Softworks.
Through Bethesda, ZeniMax controls hit franchises such as Fallout, The Elder Scrolls, Doom, Quake, and Starfield.
Microsoft acquired ZeniMax in 2021 for $7.5 billion to strengthen its Xbox gaming ecosystem and expand Xbox Game Pass offerings.
5. SwiftKey
Microsoft SwiftKey is a popular keyboard app known for predictive typing, autocorrect, and multilingual support.
Microsoft acquired SwiftKey in 2016 for around $250 million after the app gained significant popularity among Android and iPhone users.
Today, SwiftKey remains one of the most downloaded third-party keyboard apps worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Microsoft own GitHub?
Yes, Microsoft acquired GitHub in 2018 for $7.5 billion.
Is LinkedIn owned by Microsoft?
Yes, Microsoft purchased LinkedIn in 2016 for $26.2 billion.
What is Microsoft’s biggest acquisition?
Microsoft’s largest acquisition to date is Activision Blizzard, purchased for approximately $68.7 billion in 2023.
Does Microsoft own Bethesda?
Yes, Microsoft owns Bethesda through its acquisition of ZeniMax Media in 2021.
So, that was the BigStory of how Microsoft has quietly built one of the most expansive technology ecosystems in the world through strategic acquisitions, bringing major brands like GitHub, LinkedIn, Activision Blizzard, ZeniMax Media, and SwiftKey under its umbrella. At BigStories, our goal is to uncover the business moves, growth strategies, and market decisions behind the companies shaping modern industries. If you found this breakdown useful, consider sharing it with fellow entrepreneurs, tech enthusiasts, and business professionals, and explore more BigStories that reveal how today’s biggest companies are building tomorrow’s market dominance.
