These days Google is not just another search engine with some additional features. They have Google Maps, Gmail, Android, and the upcoming Chrome OS for desktop computers. Now, the monolith Google is going to play with the E-Book crowd too, as reports coming in that it’ll be launching its own ebook store before the year is out. Empire expansion in the work.

Speaking to the Wall Street Journal, Google’s Scott Dougall said that the much delayed store, originally expected to launch in the summer, will hit the U.S. before 2010 ticks over into 2011. An international version of the store is planned for Q1 2011. This will probably further strengthen its Android platform to provide a good challenge to Apple’s iBook, besides others like Amazon’s Kindle.

The aim of Google Editions is to provide a more open “read anywhere” alternative that will allow users to purchase books from multiple online retailers—including independent bookstores—and add them to an online library tied to their Google account. Users can then access their Google library from a multitude of different devices.

The Wall Street Journal says Google is on a mission to reach all internet users, not just those with e-readers or tablets. The Journal says Google will even allow bloggers to suggest related content to readers via links to the store. Though important details of Google Editions – such as revenue and which publishers have signed up to support the service – have yet to be confirmed. Well, all we know is, Google’s plan for world domination is on schedule.

SOURCE via Wall Street Journal