Google, Comcast to take stake in AOL?

As Microsoft cozies up to Yahoo, the AOL rumor mill has shifted focus to a possible partnership with Google and Comcast, with reports out that the two companies are considering taking a stake in AOL's content and web site businesses, for as much as $5 billion. The deal would allow Google to protect its AOL search revenue — its top source of revenue — and would give Comcast an entry point into the internet advertising business. However, it would leave Time Warner with AOL's deteriorating dial-up business. While it's always possible Microsoft could show some interest in that side of the company and combine it with MSN, the real interest right now is in content, including AIM, AOL.com and other properties.

 

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