Search activity is now tied with emailing as the number one activity among internet users, according to a December 2005 Pew Internet & American Life survey, writes Market Watch (via MediaBuyerPlanner). This increased popularity has big media realizing the importance of online searching as an integral component to their operations.

News Corp has interest in buying a search company before the end of May, according to Rob Sanderson, American Technology Research. "A MySpace search deal is expected within 45 days; the company is talking to all players," wrote Sanderson.

Christian Hendricks, VP of interactive media at McClatchy Company's internet operations, said search technology - specifically specialized search - was the one internet asset he wanted to acquire.

Earlier this year, Time Warner's AOL purchased Truveo - which specializes in video search - for $50 million.