• Reuters, Wednesday, October 31, 2007 1:45 PM

Ever-busy Google is now talking with major U.S. wireless carrier Verizon Wireless about putting its applications on Verizon-powered handsets. During a third-quarter earnings call, Verizon Communications COO Denny Strigl confirmed that the company had spoken with Google, but he didn't elaborate.

The talks involve a potential ad share agreement, which could mean the discussions are about Google's forthcoming mobile operating system software, which reports say will deploy advertising to subsidize cell phone and network costs. France Telecom, believed to be involved in similar negotiations, denied that Orange, its wireless unit, has spoken with Google.

Following this and the announcement of the OpenSocial deal, Google shares shot up beyond $700 a share, amid optimism that the new deals will bring the tech giant another major revenue source besides search advertising.

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