Google Buys Jaiku

Google purchased Jaiku, a social networking service for the Web and mobile phones. The Finnish startup is currently closed for new customers during the transition, but they're still allowing current users to send invites to their friends.

Google, of course, won't reveal specific plans for the acquisition, but this fits with recent rumors that Google is gearing up to compete with Facebook. It also fits with rumors of a Google Phone.

I do hope Google changes the name from "Jaiku" to something a little easier on English speaking tongues.