-It facilitates app cross comparability
-For Canonical, it reinforces the idea that Ubuntu == Linux, which is really good for their bottom line
-I wouldn't be surprised if Microsoft forked over a solid amount of cash
And Microsoft manages to undermine RedHat at the same time. Win-Win for them, why the Linux community should be excited about it, I don't know.
-It facilitates app cross comparability
-For Canonical, it reinforces the idea that Ubuntu == Linux, which is really good for their bottom line
-I wouldn't be surprised if Microsoft forked over a solid amount of cash