Apple, Google cozy on iTunes/YouTube deal?

 Apple and Google are testing a way to link YouTube with the iTunes Store, offering links to video available for sale on iTunes beside selected YouTube clips.

Apple has been experimenting with strategies to link iTunes up with social networking websites, and offers a referral scheme to those who want to link their sites up with the service.

Early reports suggest the new system’s in testing right now, as the iTunes links are appearing beside only a handful of YouTube clips (such as one from Kanye West), and the move is only visible to US users at this time.

That Google seeks to make revenue from YouTube is well-known, the company admitted as much during its financial results announcement last week. It’s possible the company hopes to generate a little cash by sending sales across to iTunes, under an affiliates agreement.