Twitter in talks with Google and Microsoft

GLOBAL - Twitter is reportedly in talks with Google and Microsoft about integrating its real-time search results into their respective search engines.

At present, Google and Bing show Twitter information on their results pages, but the deals being discussed could see the search companies license a full feed from Twitter, according to report on blog AllThingsD.

Twitter is said to be talking to Google and Microsoft separately about data-mining deals, with talks at a very early stage as the micro-blogging service explores opportunities for developing a robust commercial business model.

It is understood Twitter is only considering non-exclusive partnerships, with the company keen to retain its independent status.

The reports come hot on the heels of Twitter raising another US$100 million in new funding, having already have raised $55 million in a previous round.

The fundraising initiative gives Twitter a $1 billion market valuation despite the company still figuring out how to convert its cult status and 54 million members into cash.

Last month, it was announced that if Twitter introduces ads to its service, users of the social networks will not hold back from engaging with them, according to research.
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