Google on iPhone, searches

The iPhone is just the "first of a whole generation of products" that will exploit search technology, says Google CEO Eric Schmidt. The phone is already getting more traffic from the iPhone than any other mobile device, a fact commonly attributed to the direct integration of Google Maps and YouTube, as well as an easier interface and the availability of unlimited data plans wherever the iPhone is sold. Speaking to investors and others in an earnings conference call, Schmidt noted that ultimately, the point of spreading search functions is ad revenue.

"With those search opportunities comes ad monetization," said Schmidt. The executive also sits on Apple's board of directors, however, increasing his personal profits as the iPhone succeeds.

Google does however have much broader plans, involving its open-source Android platform for cellphones, which will likely feature Google search tools in most cases. The company has also been aggressive in signing deals where the company has no direct connections, for instance targeting Japanese carrier NTT DoCoMo. This may give it an edge on companies like Yahoo, particularly important in light of Microsoft's acquisition overtures.

By Electronista Staff