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Google, one of the world's largest Internet service providers, on Thursday acquired eBook Technologies Inc. (ETI), a startup developing various electronic books-related technologies. The takeover may mean that Google will be able to release either its own e-book reader or just integrate appropriate functionality into its Android operating system and other services.
"eBook Technologies is excited to announce that we have been acquired by Google. Working together with Google will further our commitment to providing a first-class reading experience on emerging tablets, e-readers and other portable devices," a statement by eBook Technologies posted on its web-site reads.
While it is not completely clear what Google plans to do with ETI, it is known that the eBook Technologies had developed two reference designs of electronic book readers, one with colour screen and one with E-Ink screen. In addition, the company naturally designed the necessary software stack for e-book readers. As a result, it looks like Google has just acquired an e-book platform.
At present it is not clear whether Google plans to develop and sell its own e-book readers, or just wants to develop its own e-book store platform for different devices. What is almost certain is that Google will enter the e-book business rather sooner than later.
Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Google did not comment on the news-story.
