It’s not a rumor anymore. From the Google Press Center:
Google Inc. announced today that it has agreed to acquire YouTube, the consumer media company for people to watch and share original videos through a Web experience, for $1.65 billion in a stock-for-stock transaction. Following the acquisition, YouTube will operate independently to preserve its successful brand and passionate community.
I guess the fact that Youtube will operate independently actually calms me down. I thought this service was going to be merged in Google Video.
From the same press release:
When the acquisition is complete, YouTube will retain its distinct brand identity, strengthening and complementing Google’s own fast-growing video business. YouTube will continue to be based in San Bruno, CA, and all YouTube employees will remain with the company.
And the after-the-sale message from Youtube’s co-founders :
If you ask me, they seem gay.
Wont YouTube have the same destiny as Napster? 90% of it’s content is copyrighted materials, but companies are not so interested on it’s money so far.