There? Where? Google's in?

+ Is Google testing a virtual world?

Rumors are flying throughout the Internet world that Google is the company for which Arizona State University is soliciting students to test a social-networking project.

Discussion on several blogs and Web sites centers on the Internet-search giant's intent to develop a "virtual world" similar to the Second Life site developed by Linden Lab.

The ASU solicitation seeks students with video-game and three-dimensional modeling experience and those with an avatar. Among other things, it asks applicants whether they have a Gmail (or Google mail) account and whether they'd be willing to sign a non-disclosure agreement.

Interesting to see where this will go considering the lackluster marketing attempts with SecondLife. Another new place, there.com, is a similar type of place where advertisers can purchase islands and create virtual worlds to push their goods.