Google really will rule the world…

I remember having a conversation with an old colleague of mine a few years ago. (It was John Oates of The Register, in case you’re interested).

He’d been to see Google, and had come back with a strange expression on his face – part awe, part fear.

If memory serves, his main thrust was that Google was soon going to rule the world.

And if this piece on TechCrunch is anything to go by, he wasn’t wrong – Google’s getting everywhere these days.

“Google’s quest to be everywhere continues to grow with news that the Mountain View search giant will today announce a new deal that will see motorists in the United States hooking up to Google at the gas station.

Pumps made by Gilbarco Veeder-Root Inc will include an internet connection and will display Google Maps on a small color screen. Motorists will be able to obtain directions to hotels, restaurants, hospitals, or other local landmarks as specified by the gas station owner and get a print out from the pump to take with them.”

I can still remember the days when you got Green Shield Stamps with your petrol, or possibly a free drinking glass from Esso…

I don’t know why, but I find this move slightly sinister. Up until now, it’s been my choice whether or not I engage with the Google brand. Now, its technology will be unavoidable for anyone filling their car up with petrol at the affected garages. And I’m not sure I like the sound of that.

Still, it’s an inspired bit of marketing, and one that benefits consumers, so everyone’s a winner. Apart from MultiMap, StreetMap, the AtoZ Map Company etc etc…