Google (NASDAQ:GOOG) Attacks Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL), Amazon (NASDAQ:GOOG) with Online Digital Book Store

Google (NASDAQ:GOOG) has opened another digital front, this time in the online book space, as they launched their new venture aimed at major rivals and competitors in the space, Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL), Amazon.com (NASDAQ:GOOG).

The digital book sector at this time is estimated to be at about $1 billion, and should grow steadily in the years ahead.

Google started their new service off with hundreds of thousands of digital books for sale an millions offered for free.

The initiative is called 'Google eBooks,' and had been named 'Google Editions' in the past.

Director of strategic partnerships at Google, Tom Turvey said, "Publishers want more competition in the marketplace, and we already have a big investment. We're trying to extend the value of content that exists in the world by enabling people to find it and buy it."

Online Wall Street Journal reported, "Users will be able to buy books through books.google.com/ebooks and read them on many devices, including tablets, computers, smartphones and open format e-readers. Google on Monday released e-book buying and reading apps for Apple's iPhone, iTouch and iPad as well as Android mobile devices."

Those wishing to generate an income off of the new venture will be able to send visitors to Google to acquire digital titles and earn a commission via an affiliate program.