Google is running a promotion through February 15, the day after Valentine's Day, in which first-time shoppers on Google Checkout will receive $10 off a one-time purchase of at least $10. The offer is being featured on a wide variety of Google Checkout's thousands of merchant partners, including Buy.com, Zales, Jockey, Bluefly, Aeropostale, and new partner Blue Nile.

Google Checkout commissioned a survey conducted by Harris Interactive that found 52 percent of U.S. adult Valentine's Day shoppers will be buying gifts for more than one Valentine this year ­ for their spouses, for their parents and other family members, for their pets, and maybe even for multiple sweethearts. The company is aiming its promotion at these shoppers.

In a recent conference call with investors, Google Founder and President of Technology Sergey Brin referenced the company's intention to expand Google Checkout internationally. (The service is currently limited to the U.S.) Brin said that in the six months since Checkout's launch, thousands of small and medium merchants have signed up, and it now has more than 20 percent of the Web's top 500 retailers, including Toys"R"Us, Linens 'n Things, PETCO and Buy.com.

"We expect this momentum to continue as we expand Checkout beyond the U.S. and deepen integration with other products," Brin said (http://internet.seekingalpha.com/article/25717).

http://checkout.google.com