Google, Sun Ink Software Partnership
Google and Sun kicked off a multi-year partnership at a special event on Tuesday, inking a deal to distribute each other's software. The two companies will collaborate on ways to make it easier for consumers to obtain Sun's Java runtime, the OpenOffice.org productivity suite and the Google Toolbar.
By working with Google, Sun could better compete with Microsoft through increased online promotion. "Working with Google will make our technologies available more broadly, increase options for user, lower barriers, and expand participation worldwide," said Sun CEO Scott McNealy.
Google said it would offer Java as an optional install to users who download the company's browser toolbar. With Microsoft no longer including Java support in Windows, the bundling deal could help Sun get its technology across a wider range of desktops.
"Google and Java are two of the most widely recognized technology brands because they provide users with online tools that enhance their lives on a day to day basis," said Google chairman and CEO Eric Schmidt. "We look forward to exploring other areas of collaboration."
In exchange, Google will be free to create applications based on Sun's technology. Prior to the announcement, some had speculated that Google planned to build an office suite based on OpenOffice.org. However, the companies did not indicate such a project was in the works.
Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.