Microsoft acquires Flipgrid – a social learning platform

Microsoft has acquired a social learning app Flipgrid that utilizes short video clips to make effective lesson plans for students all around the world.

Flipgrid is used by over 20 million teachers and students in 180 countries to discuss their learning experiences by sharing video content. The learning platform allows students to discuss and share different lesson plans in the form of video clips. The app is similar to create and post a YouTube video in response to a particular topic, news or subject. After acquiring, Microsoft will make Flipgrid free for schools and customers who have already paid for a subscription will be getting a refund.

Eran Megiddo, corporate vice president at Microsoft says:

“We’re thrilled to see the impact Flipgrid has had on social learning thus far and look forward to helping them continue to thrive as part of the Microsoft family. We’re diligently committed to making sure their platform and products continue to work across the Microsoft, Google and partner ecosystems to benefit students and teachers everywhere.”

Microsoft aiming to empower every student on the planet to achieve more considers Flipgrid as an ideal platform to help teachers and students build social skills beyond traditional curricula. By now, Microsoft has integrated the app into Microsoft Teams in Office 365 for education however, it is yet to be seen how Flipgrid will fit into Microsoft’s Edtech play. Just like Office 365 Education Software, the company will make the app accessible to schools and those who have got a subscription will receive a prorated refund.

Jim Leslie, Flipgrid CEO says:

“Flipgrid has always been about the educator community. They are the source of our innovation and impact,”

New updates of Flipgrid will be launched and live streamed on 1st August from Minneapolis at Flipgrid’s annual educator conference, #FlipgridLIVE, an event which observes more than 800 educators in attendance and a global online audience.