More Google classifieds buzz

CNET News.com: "Google has filed a patent application for something called 'Google Automat,' a service that could tie into the Google Base database service and 'Google Purchases' (formerly 'Google Wallet') online payment system, said Classified Intelligence, which helps media companies and others develop classified-advertising services.
Last month, Google said it was testing a new service, Google Base, that would let people post and make searchable any type of content. A sample page listed as examples party planning services, current events and used car listings.
'Google is seeking to patent a Web advertising placement system tentatively known as 'Google Automat' that could directly impact the $100 billion annual global classified-advertising business,' Altamonte Springs, Fla.-based Classified Intelligence said in a statement.
'It's crystal clear Google is planning for an all-out move into classified advertising,' said Peter M. Zollman, founding principal of Classified Intelligence.
In its patent applications, Google used the 'classifieds.google.com' Web address, Classified Intelligence said. "