Question
Google's entry into online selling is slowly unveiling itself. Are you ready for some real competition, eBay? Is this, in fact, what we have been hoping for as sellers? We'll all know soon enough.
Answer
I really hope that's the case, because if it is, I know I'm ready for it. But look what I found later that day.
Google has strongly denied speculation that it is testing an online classifieds service by the name of Google Base.
The speculations were spurred after screenshots of the alleged service started appearing online on Tuesday. Google then quickly removed the webpages from the URL at which they were found.
The page shows an option to post data to a category such as vehicles. The page further suggests that the service could be out to woo classified advertisers with the phrase: "Are you a merchant or a webmaster, or do you have lots of stuff?"
The page however also offers plenty of hints that the service is about something other than Google setting up an eBay competitor. The service is described as a "database in which you can add all types of content. We'll host your content and make it searchable online for free."
Numerous blogs and even the New York Times, however, quickly jumped to the conclusion the service marks an attempt by Google to expand into e-commerce.
Later on in the day Google put an abrupt end to the speculation. "We are testing a new way for content owners to submit their content to Google, which we hope will complement existing methods," explained Google product marketing manager Tom Oliveri on Google's official blog.
http://www.vnunet.com/vnunet/news/21...ay-competition
Answer
Originally Posted by Roundabout
Google has strongly denied speculation that it is testing an online classifieds service by the name of Google Base.
Numerous blogs and even the New York Times, however, quickly jumped to the conclusion the service marks an attempt by Google to expand into e-commerce.
Google has numerous projects in beta testing including a Google Money & Auctions - both should be real money spinners if they undercut the evil empire aka eBay/PayPal.
Answer
I've yet to see a rumor about a major tech. player turn out false. Apple's Video IPod, Palm's Windows-based Treo, all have turned out to be true. I think they are the ones building up the hype themselves Yes, they are also supposed to be working on Google Wallet, although they deny it is to compete with PayPal. Once again, I think the truth is that it is exactly one of the things that the purpose of GW will be.
Answer
I understand what you're saying, and I hope it's true, but I"m trying to stay a little pessimistic on the issue as to not build up my hopes only to have them crushed.