Brands to Watch: Twitter, Google, Skype

Google TV announced its programming partners, including TV networks HBO and CNBC (but not, notably, ABC, CBS, Fox and NBC) and Web players including Twitter. Google also launched a microsite to highlight the new offering.

In addition to the Google TV partnership and formally launching promoted tweets today, Twitter CEO Evan Williams announced he's stepping down from the top spot to focus on product strategy. As expected, COO Dick Costolo is moving up to the CEO's role.

The U.S. Justice Department sues American Express (Visa and MasterCard settled) for alleged anti-competitive practices that prevent merchants from offering discounts and raise prices for consumers.

Cisco exec Tony Bates is the new CEO of Skype, which is reportedly in integration talks with Facebook.Continue reading...