Google considers newsstand for Android

Just as the first assessments of iPad magazine sales results are being made, news emerges that Google is reportedly working on a newsstand service for Android tablet owners.
Although not yet officially confirmed, reports from the Wall Street Journal suggest Google is in negotiations with publishing giants like Condé Nast, Hearst Corporation, and Time Warner. The aim is to establish a collaboration to bring magazines to Android tablets, all distributed through what could be called the Google Newsstand.
From a practical standpoint, this wouldn’t be revolutionary; it would essentially be an app marketplace for editorial content, largely modeled after Apple’s system. For each digital copy sold, a percentage would rightfully go to the publishers, with the rest heading to Mountain View’s coffers. This system, according to these early leaks, could be more advantageous for publishers than Apple’s, as Google is reportedly considering taking a smaller cut for itself, thus allowing publishers to earn more than they currently do with Apple. This, however, comes with the condition of exclusivity: a magazine featured on the Google Newsstand should not be released elsewhere.
The deal seems to hinge entirely on revenue sharing, according to these rumors which, while unofficial, are considered quite credible.
There’s another aspect that reportedly appeals greatly to publishers: Google is capable of providing more user data compared to Apple. This represents another clear advantage, particularly for advertising campaigns and targeted marketing strategies.
As this project is still in its design phase, the timeline for the launch of the Google Newsstand is currently unknown.