Google in talks with wireless firms

Verizon Wireless and Sprint Nextel Corp. are in "advanced talks" with Google Inc. about carrying a cell phone powered by the Web company's software, according to a published report.

The Wall Street Journal's online edition cited unnamed sources in reporting the talks Tuesday.

The paper said Google is expected to announce within two weeks a set of software and services that cell phone makers could use. The software would likely allow third parties to add applications, and it would probably be able to take advantage of Google's advertising network.

Deals with Verizon Wireless and Sprint, the country's second and third largest carriers, would give Google a wide platform for its software.

Google already has "significant traction" with the fourth largest U.S. carrier, T-Mobile USA, the Journal reported.

Representatives of Verizon Wireless, T-Mobile and Google said they had no comment on the report. Calls to Sprint after office hours were not returned.

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Rumors about a "Google phone" have swirled for months, mainly linked to the company's stated intent to bid on a chunk of wireless spectrum coming up for auction in the next few months.

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But developing the spectrum acquired in the auction would take years, while a deal with major wireless carrier would allow Google to quickly jump into the cell phone market.

Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of New York-based Verizon Communications Inc. and Vodafone Group PLC of Britain.