Google has posted better-than-expected results, with a 6% increase in its first-quarter revenues, despite its first ever drop in quarter-on-quarter results.
Google reported revenues of $5.51bn (£3.72bn) for the three months to 31 March 2009.
The results showed Google has felt the impact of the global recession, posting a 3% decline in revenues compared to the fourth quarter of 2008.
Income for the quarter was $1.42bn (£959m), up from $1.31bn (£884m) a year earlier.
Eric Schmidt, CEO of Google, said, "These results underline both the resilience of our business model and the ongoing potential of the web as users and advertisers shift online. Going forward, our priority remains investing for the long term to drive future growth in our core and emerging businesses."
AdSense revenue was $1.64bn (£1.10bn), which accounted for 30% of total revenues, a 3% drop year on year. Google-owned sites brought in revenues of $3.7bn (£2.5bn), 67% of total revenues, a 9% increase from a year ago.
Other results showed paid-clicks increased 17% compared to the first quarter of 2008.
Separately, Google announced the beta launch of Google TV Ads Online, enabling brands to advertise during ad breaks of online shows. Ads will be shown across shows on YouTube and other sites that feature full-length videos.
Author: Suzanne Bearne
Date: 17.04.2009