Google on the Radio?

Google just bought dMarc Advertising, a company that puts ads on the radio. Yes, the radio. Not podcasts, not satellite, but the old-school radio. Is this a joke? Not at all. In a statement made by a Google spokesperson: "Google is committed to exploring new ways to extend targeted, measurable advertising to other forms of media," said Tim Armstrong, vice president of Advertising Sales, Google. "We anticipate that this acquisition will bring new ad dollars and accountability to radio by combining Google’s expansive network of advertisers with dMarc’s talented team and innovative radio advertising technology. We look forward to working together to continue to grow and improve the ecosystem of the radio industry."

So, what’s the big plan here? Apparently, just to make more money. Google advertisers will have another avenue besides the net for their ads, I suppose. So, the question is: Is Google a search company or an ad company? I’m beginning to think it’s the latter.