Why did Google cancel Google Answers?

As of 11:16pm CST they gave me a notice that "Google Answers is no longer accepting questions.


We're sorry, but Google Answers has been retired, and is no longer accepting new questions.


Search or browse the existing Google Answers index by using the search box above or the category links below. "

Why did Google cancel Google Answers?
according to their rep who responded to newspaper responses, it was just an experiment that came to an end. it didn't work out in the end.





I've attached a link to one of the articles - there were several.





And also, Yahoo! Answers is better!
Reply:Google Answers must have been a very small part of Google's operation. There's a full list of the former Google Answers Researchers here:





http://web-owls.com/2007/05/02... Report It

Reply:Still, it would be nice to get paid to answer questions. =)
Reply:That is a valid question. I noticed that Yahoo is also downgrading its questions and answers section. It used to be way bigger.


My guess is that people were not using it as much anymore as they did in the beginning. From its initial growth phase, both search engines have reached plateau stage. This is the stage where management will decide if the cost of keeping it operational is worth any possible commercial benefit that can be reaped.
Reply:They giving Yahoo! the business. They both make money from each other.