The Inside Google Blog posts a rumour that Google may be about to test a purchase system:

“Google sent out a notice to testers recently that they are holding a confidential beta of a system to make purchases from “high-quality merchants” using their Google Accounts. They listed a great selection of stuff, including cell phone and iPod accessories, music and movies, health and beauty supplies, furniture, housewares, sports and outdoor gear, toys, games and more”

It will be interesting to see if there is some confirmation from Google in the near future.

Paypal, the popular payment processing system, was acquired by eBay Inc. in October, 2002.