Google is getting close to finalize its foray into e-book market. According to the Wall Street Journal, the search behemoth is in the
"final stages" and is likely to unveil its offering by the end of the year. The company was expected to launch the venture way back in June. However, the project met with several delays, but now looks all set to make the plunge into the emerging segment. Google's entry is expected to pose a major threat to Amazon and Apple's iBookstore.
Google product management director has been quoted as saying that the US will get to use the services by the end of the month, whereas its international launch will be completed in the first quarter of 2011. Google will integrate your purchases with your Google accounts and the content will be available on "most devices with a web browser".
Amazon currently commands 65 percent share of e-book market. However, Google is going to adopt a different approach from Amazon, since Google will let its users buy the books from the search giant itself or from any other online retailers. The company did not provide the details about its project partners.