Google (GOOG) To Start Own Social Network, Compete With Facebook

TechCrunch is reporting that Google (GOOG) is "preparing its own major assault on the social networking scene." The project is currently called “Maka-Maka”.

Google already owns large social network Orkut, but most of its members are outside the US. Google’s new product will allow developers to build applications for it much as can be done now for Facebook.

The move by the search engine company puts it on a collision course with News Corp’s (NWS) MySpace where Google already has an advertising relationship. The program will also challenge the new Microsoft (MSFT) alliance with Facebook.

Douglas A. McIntyre