Clearly not just an Internet company anymore, Google's struck a deal to bundle software with Dell computers and establish Google's search engine as the default homepage of any Dell computer. You can already download a package from Google.com that includes third-party and Google programs, highlighted by the Google Toolbar and the Firefox Web browser. But by paying Dell as much as $1 billion over the next three years, Google could get every Dell owner using its software to search both the Web and their own desktops. Since many computer users don't branch out beyond preinstalled software, a partnership with Dell could position Google to hit Microsoft right between the eyes. Google is working with Sun Microsystems to help develop a word processor and spreadsheet manager. Microsoft has long dominated those areas with Microsoft Office, but if a Google Office-like suite infiltrated Dell computers, it could put an end to the overarching reliance on Microsoft software and provoke a major power shift. Just no Google version of the talking paper clip, please! — Trevor Noren