Computerworld - Microsoft Corp. has moved closer to striking a deal with Verizon Wireless to become the search provider on Verizon's wireless devices, according to a report.
Microsoft is willing to guarantee payments of as much as $650 million over five years to be the default search provider, twice what Google Inc. has offered Verizon for the same role, according to The Wall Street Journal, citing unnamed sources (subscription required).
The report said the situation is still fluid with both companies, however.
Neither Microsoft nor Verizon would comment, and Google could not be reached for comment.
Google provides search for Sprint Nextel Corp., and AT&T Inc. is planning to use Yahoo Inc.'s search engine on high-end phones.
Also today, Verizon announced that guests to Walt Disney World or the Disneyland Resort will be able to use Verizon Wireless phones to locate shows, restaurants and other information about the parks.
Read more about Mobile and Wireless in Computerworld's Mobile and Wireless Topic Center.
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