Google Launches Online Shopping Service

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Google announced the launch of its online shopping service, Google Checkout, on Thursday. Shoppers looking for a particular product can use the Google Internet search service to track down what they want, and then make their purchase online from a participating retailer. They can also use their Google Checkout login at participating retailer Web sites.

Google says that its new service will offer better security for shoppers since it handles the transaction. Google keeps track of your buying information, like shipping address and credit card number, in its own database. Users enter their Google login information at the retaileris Web site, and the purchase can be made without providing the store with your credit card information.

Shoppers can also check their buying history, and get reimbursed for unauthorized purchases.

The service puts Google in a position where it could potentially compete with Amazon.com and eBay. Google Checkout, however, does not offer a full store front site of its own like Amazon.com and eBay do.

Several companies are already offering Google Checkout support including Jockey, Starbucks Store, Leviis, Timberland, and Buy.com.

Jeff Gamet

Jeff Gamet

Jeff is the Mac Observer's Managing Editor, and co-host of the Apple Context Machine podcast. He is the author of "The Designer's Guide to Mac OS X" from Peachpit Press, and writes for several design-related publications. Jeff has presented at events such as Macworld Expo, the RSA Conference, and the Mac Computer Expo. In all his spare time, he also co-hosts the We Have Communicators podcast, and makes guest appearances on several other podcasts, too. Jeff dreams in HD.

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