American telecommunications company Verizon Communications and search engine giant Google are currently in discussions over a mobile search partnership. The deal would see Google become the default search engine on all Verizon devices, giving Google access to a potential user base of 68 million. As well as utilising Google's search engine as a default search page, rumours are also abound of the possibility that Verizon will place the Google search bar on the home screen of all its phones. It may also add Google to its web portal and FiOS TV service.
Research from Neilsen mobile reveals that out of the 36 million Verizon Wireless consumers, around 13.1 million search the web. The research also shows that around 3.8 million use the network to access a search engine such as Google or Yahoo - however, only 2.3 million use the Verizon branded search engine which is currently the main search tool on the company's phones.
Both Verizon and Google would benefit financially from the deal by sharing revenue from advertising that is tied to searches. The Wall Street Journal speculates that "Google wants closer integration with carriers like Verizon so it can enhance the relevance of the ads it shows - for example, by making them sensitive to a user's location".
The companies are currently negotiating how much information Google can retain about Verizon's customers and their searches, with rumours suggesting that the deal could be closed in the next few weeks.
However, relations haven't been as friendly between the two companies in recent months - Google previously filed a petition asking Verizon to pledge that it would commit to the open access rules set by the FCC after the company acquired a brand of spectrum at a 700MHz auction. Could this partnership mark the end of old rivalries and the start of a beautiful relationship? We'll just have to wait and see.
