Just Googling It Is Striking Fear Into Companies

[3fingersalute]

Quite an interesting story that was linked to on Slashdot.

"The New York Times reports that Google is striking fear into the hearts of even unrelated industries. From the article: 'We watch Google very closely at Wal-Mart," said Jim Breyer, a member of Wal-Mart's board. In Google, Wal-Mart sees both a technology pioneer and the seed of a threat, said Mr. Breyer, who is also a partner in a venture capital firm. The worry is that by making information available everywhere, Google might soon be able to tell Wal-Mart shoppers if better bargains are available nearby.'"

Here's the part that flipped me out:

"Cellphone makers, for example, are looking at the concept of a "shopping phone" with a camera that can read product bar codes. The phone could connect to databases and search services and, aided by satellite technology, reveal that the flat-screen TV model in front of you is $200 cheaper at a store five miles away."

[El_Squid]

Knowledge is power! The big difference in merchandise may now become the service and support offered by the various retailers and manufacturers.

[NooNoo]

Nah, that's going to be just information... knowledge is when you know you are buying cheap and nasty with no service....