Exclusive: Google expands pilot program that pays developers and small businesses for proprietary, offline code (and other data)

Google is expanding a pilot program called "Content Offer Pilot" that pays developers and small businesses for proprietary, non-public content—including code repositories—to improve its products and services. Prospective partners submit selected material through an online portal, choose what to offer, and propose a price; a deal proceeds only if both sides agree. Google says hundreds of third-party developers and small businesses across roughly 100 countries have participated so far, with over 90% expressing interest in taking part again. An anonymous startup CEO said the pilot lets companies monetize code they had already written while retaining ownership. The expansion builds on a June content acquisition effort that previously covered creative and educational content, now putting code developers at the center. Google has not specified which products will use the code, payment ranges, or what rights it receives under typical agreements—details critical for businesses weighing payment against the value of keeping code private.

(Source：Venturebeat)