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Huge step in the battle for control of the internet. If the deal goes through, Google will pretty much own the user-uploaded video market (Google Video + Youtube have a combined market share of over 70%). That gives them some major power in the online content business, and it also signifies a large switch in Google's strategy. In the past, they primarily focused on developing things themselves and acquiring small, developing projects. Buying part of AOL already signalled they were deviating from that strategy, and if they indeed buy Youtube, it's clear that they are taking a much more aggressive stance in the markets.
That's a major blow to both Yahoo and Microsoft, who are both in direct competition with Google. It makes the sale of Facebook to Yahoo much more likely, and also improves chances of MS and Yahoo strengthening their alliance.
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