News.com Daily Podcast: What would a Verizon/Alltel merger mean?
Verizon makes a big bid for Alltel, and Udi Manber, the man behind Google's search algorithm, shares a few secrets.
Listen now: Download today's podcast
Verizon Wireless announced Thursday that it intends to acquire Alltel in a deal worth $28.1 billion that would create the largest cell phone company in the country. CNET News.com reporter Maggie Reardon chats with podcast host Leslie Katz about what this merger would mean for Verizon--and for consumers.
Udi Manber oversees Google's search algorithm, and he's usually pretty secretive about his work. But News.com reporter Stephen Shankland got him talking.
Plus, a car battery company says long-awaited advances in lithium ion batteries will make the decision to trade in a gas guzzler for a hybrid electric car more attractive. And NASA's Mars exploring robot is corresponding with the Internet community in more ways than one.
Today's stories:
Verizon Wireless to buy Alltel
At Google, a search guru's dream comes true
A two-year payback for buyers of future hybrids?
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Study tracking people via cell phone raises privacy issues