Google and eBay Announced Advertising Partnership

Google an eBay have revealed through a joint press release the inking of an advertising partnership; however, they did not disclose particular financial details, although a selection of the financial terms are related to revenue sharing. "We're pleased to expand our long-standing relationship with Google to explore new market opportunities, like click-to-call advertising, that benefit both our communities of users," said Meg Whitman, President and CEO, eBay Inc. "People continue to evolve how they shop, communicate and advertise online. By combining the power of eBay in ecommerce and Skype in communications with Google's leadership in search and advertising, we can increase the usefulness of the Internet for shoppers, merchants and advertisers around the world."

The duo will begin implementation of text-based advertising and "click-to-call" technology at the beginning of 2007. Outside the United States, Google will be the exclusive provider of text-based publicity, while Yahoo will deliver similar services on home ground. "Click-to-call" advertising functionality will be at the basis of VoIP calls via Skype of Google Talk to eBay merchants of Google advertisers. The capability will implement the new e-commerce model in both the companies shopping and search platforms.

"This agreement underscores how much we value eBay as a partner," said Eric Schmidt, CEO of Google. "Our technologies will allow us to connect users to relevant advertising across eBay's international properties. By working together to promote click-to-call functionality through Google Talk and Skype, we are offering advertisers another innovative way to connect with customers."