Nonetheless, high expectations for synergies across Microsoft and Skype are evidenced by the $7.1 billion goodwill attributed to the acquisition. As noted in Microsoft's 2012 SEC Form 10-K, "The goodwill recognized in connection with the acquisition is primarily attributable to our expectation of extending Skype's brand and the reach of its networked platform, while enhancing Microsoft's existing portfolio of real-time com munications products and services." In addition, the success of the Skype acquisition will depend on Microsoft's ability to compete against rivals Apple and Google in the expanding markets of instant messaging, voice, video messaging, and other communica tion projects