09.27.08
Google’s Get the Facts Website
So, now Google finds itself facing criticism as folks air their antitrust concerns regarding their proposed advertising deal with Yahoo!, and have decided the best method of countering those arguments is with their very own “Get the Facts” style website.
This arrangement is not a merger, nor a joint venture. It is much simpler than that – it is a non-exclusive agreement to supply advertising. Yahoo! remains free to enter into similar agreements with other advertising providers, including Microsoft. In addition, Yahoo! will maintain relationships with its own advertising customers and will continue to rely exclusively on its own advertising program outside of the U.S. and Canada.
The agreement has a term of up to ten years: a 4-year initial term and two 3-year renewals at Yahoo!’s option.
As noted by Shaun Nichols at vnunet.com, Google also takes the time to specifically take Microsoft to task for what they characterize as “political attacks” incited by Microsoft’s failure to acquire Yahoo! earlier this year.
The Google website also notes that, although they do not believe regulatory blessing is required, Yahoo! and Google are delaying implementation of the deal to allow for the U.S. Department of Justice, and possibly States’ Attorney Generals, to review the deal and have their concerns about the effect on competition assuaged.
It just seems humorous to me that Google is hitting back at Microsoft using their own methods and tactics. Well, except for the chair throwing anyhow.
twitter said,
September 27, 2008 at 8:35 pm
Not quite M$ style, because Google does not have to lie about things.
Shane Coyle said,
September 27, 2008 at 8:54 pm
True.
Also, having WAY more of the search market means that they can make sure their own pay-to-place ads end up on just about every important site that has the keywords “Yahoo!”, “Google” or “Microsoft” – just like how the getthefacts links always show up anywhere the word “Linux” is featured, much to the ire of some in the community.
Beating them at their own game. Very funny.