February 2008: Microsoft acquires Danger
A few months after the release of the Sidekick LX (pictured), Microsoft announces the acquisition of Danger Inc. The Redmond company promises to “align Danger’s nearly 10 years of expertise in the mobile consumer space with Microsoft’s vision to provide innovative and compelling mobile experiences to a growing base of customers.”
“Microsoft is a global leader with our Windows Mobile software and expanding mobile services,” says Robbie Bach, president of Microsoft’s Entertainment and Devices Division at the time. “The addition of Danger serves as a perfect complement to our existing software and services, and also strengthens our dedication to improving mobile experiences centered around individuals and what they like.”
Purchase price: $500 million.
Next: Danger server meltdown melts the Sidekick
- The Beginning: Danger is formed by three Apple veterans
- Spring 2001: Danger’s mysterious plans start to draw attention
- September 2001: Danger unveils the Hiptop
- December 2001: Woz is on board
- October 2002: Hiptop debuts on T-Mobile as the Sidekick
- Fall 2004: Celebrities embrace a new Sidekick
- February 2005: Paris Hilton is hacked
- Fall 2005: Google acquires Android, sets stage for mobile push
- February 2008: Microsoft acquires Danger
- October 2008: Danger server meltdown melts the Sidekick
- April 2010: Microsoft launches the Kin, briefly
- February 2011: End of the Sidekick’s Danger era
- March 2011: Sidekick goes Android