Is Google a Media Company?

While Knol is only three weeks old and still relatively obscure, it has already rekindled fears among some media companies that Google is increasingly becoming a competitor. They foresee Google’s becoming a powerful rival that not only owns a growing number of content properties, including YouTube, the top online video site, and Blogger, a leading blogging service, but also holds the keys to directing users around the Web.

Salon launches blogger 'tipping' system, CNet.

So you liked that blog post you just read--why don't you toss the writer a buck or two?
That's the rationale behind new-media outlet Salon's latest initiative. Members of its "Open Salon" user-generated content community can now "tip" one another with real-world money if they like what they see. You know, like street musicians. Popular content will also appear on the main Salon.com homepage.

LOL - Obama to announce VP via text message, Washington Times.

I've written a lot about the Obama campaign's use of text messaging as a fundraising tool and also to promote his message of the day or to make sure people tune in to his appearances on television such as "Meet the Press" or even "The Daily Show."
But this is a new one, and it will help the campaign collect (even more) valuable data on potential voters they can reach out to for the Nov. 4 election. The announcement from campaign manager David Plouffe also lets voters sign up to get an e-mail alert with the choice.