Google Coughs Up 1.65B For YouTube

So the deal is done. Google just bought YouTube. So the big question on everyone's minds is ... WHY?

They didn't do it for the technology. Google had their own video technology, and it was pretty good. They also didn't do it to put YouTube out of business, because the value that portal has now is pretty significant.

It appears on the surface, that Google did it to get those people using YouTube every day. My E-Marketing class focused a great deal on the exponential power of networks, and it's clear that Google will be able to take YouTube to at least their next doubling point if not further by combining the search giant's popularity with the 'Tube's.

At least, they can if they know to leave well enough alone. Add Google Checkout, and some video purchasing options. Integrate it with Blogger. Make it searchable. Then get the hell out of our way. If they can resist the urge to try to bring YouTube too much into the fold, they should make out pretty well.