Google is taking a major step in its travel push, teaming up with travel giant Sabre Corp. in a new 10-year alliance.
Sabre will move the bulk of its IT infrastructure over to Google Cloud. The deal further accelerates the growing rivalry between Google and travel giant Expedia. Sabre and Expedia have a history of technology partnerships. They were even acquisition partners in 2015 when Expedia scooped up online travel brand Travelocity from Sabre for $280 million.
Google operates the search engine and advertising platform that Expedia and other online travel companies rely on for large chunks of traffic.
Google’s push into the travel market dates back nearly a decade, but it has stepped up in recent years. In 2011, it launched Google Flights, later adding booking capabilities. Google Maps and Search have added hotel details and prices, bypassing more traditional online travel agencies.
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