Google to Jump Head-First into the Long Tail of Commerce

Google is reportedly readying a new program that will integrate product results from Google Base into the main Google.com search engine. This will debut in the fourth quarter in time for the holiday shopping season. When people search for products on Google.com, the search engine will present them with another search box so that they can refine their query and see results from the Google Base listings site, according to analysts.

The Web 2.0 blog also notes that Google's Q4 plans also involve de-emphasizing Froogle as a destination website and moving its comparison-shopping capabilities right into Google.com.

Google's greatest successes to date have involved products and Long Tail types of services for the little guy. This is why I am doubtful of the company's new focus on swimming upstream. It's clear that social commerce has a lot of potential for Google. It's putting renewed focus on Google Base clearly over its existing commerce partners and appears headed for a showdown with eBay.

Tags: google, ebay, commerce, googlebase