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Google Checkout: the Online Retailer Nexus

Creating, essentially, an 'online retailer nexus' that places the consumer in control, today retailers will be introduced to a new model where just one company is the mediator of all consumer online retail transactions -- Google Inc. announced the launch of 'Google Checkout,' a checkout process that they say makes online shopping faster, more convenient and more secure for Google users.

Google Checkout offers an easy and trusted checkout option that enables shoppers to purchase from participating stores with a single Google login. It also works with Google's search advertising program, AdWords, to help merchants acquire new customers and process all or a portion of their Checkout sales for free.

Here's how it works: shoppers can find stores that accept Google Checkout by looking for the Google Checkout icon on AdWords advertisements or whenever they come across the Google Checkout option on a merchant's site. If shoppers want to use Google Checkout, they can create a Google Checkout login right from the merchant's site with a single username and password by entering basic information, such as their contact details, payment preferences, and shipping information, once.

Then, when checking out at any store that offers Google Checkout, they can simply select Google Checkout, quickly complete their transaction with their login information, and avoid the hassle of filling out multiple forms. In addition, shoppers can keep track of their purchase history, including orders and shipping details, in one place (Google Checkout).

Shoppers can also enhance their security when making purchases through Google Checkout. The service conceals the buyer credit card number and provides reimbursement for unauthorized purchases. And, to provide more control over email spam, Google Checkout lets shoppers choose whether or not to keep email addresses confidential or turnoff unwanted email from the stores where they shop.

Google Checkout enables purchases using existing payment methods, including Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover. Moreover, Citi is offering its credit card customers a special, 'limited-time promotion' for signing up and purchasing with Google Checkout using their Citi Card. The service is currently open to all U.S. merchants, whether they advertise with Google or not, and Google is currently working to make the service available to merchants internationally.

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