Google chief: Apple's iAd helped our AdMob deal
updated 09:10 am EDT, Mon April 12, 2010
Google thanks Apple for justifying AdMob takeover
Apple's launch of the iAd platform last week was a welcome boost to Google's buyout of AdMob, Google chief Eric Schmidt admitted Sunday. Apple's creation of its own potentially major ad system has legitimized the existence of a "highly competitive market" and would make it more likely that the FTC approves the AdMob deal. He hoped the deal would be approved as it was "obvious" there wouldn't be competitive problems.
The statements contrast against numerous leaks, including a new one from a software developer, that the FTC is actively opposed to the deal and is on the verge of a formal investigation into the possible consequences of Google's acquisition.
iAd is the result of Apple buying out Quattro Wireless as a reaction to the AdMob deal, which came after Apple allegedly missed the window for its own attempt to buy AdMob. Apple had originally floated the prospects of buying a mobile ad firm as a form of retaliation for Google's incursion into the mobile space with Android.
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: May 2007
Is there a point here?
Reports elsewhere are that Schmidt asked Jobs to develop Apple's new iAd service. Apple's new service would reduce the antitrust pressure on Google. This article appears to contradict those earlier reports while providing evidence that to appear to support them.
Which is it MacNN?