Imagine downloading a high-definition, full-length feature film in less than five minutes. Universal, ultra high-speed internet access will make all this and more possible – says Google.

The search engine giant has today made a bid to launch its own high-speed broadband network.

Search engine + email + phone handsets + social sites + broadband = world domination.

Just kidding. But Google really is every where, isn’t it? Mmmm, everywhere except China. But never mind that. Google’s latest venture is only launching as a trial in the US, for now.

Should it succeed, it will be able to gather yet more customer information from its broadband network and target users better with ads. There really is no escaping.

But aside from that, you have to hand it to Google. They’re are doing an excellent job at remaining in the hearts and minds of customers.

Remember a few years ago when Pay TV companies were launching triple-play packages and they would sell you broadband internet , mobile and fixed line plans and satellite TV and you’d pay for it all in one bill? Well I see Google heading down a rut e that is much the same. It’s streamlining digital communication and making itself a one-stop shop.

That should make things easier for advertisers too. They will be able to send one consistent brand message through a range of different digital channels while only having to deal with one provider/host. Maybe they’ll get a package deal too – say some search ads, some video ads on YouTube, a profile on Buzz and maybe throw in a display ad here or there for free.

In a statement on its blog, Google said, “We plan to offer service at a competitive price to at least 50,000 and potentially up to 500,000 people. Our goal is to experiment with new ways to help make internet access better and faster for everyone.”

The search giant also lists a number of specific features it has in mind. Here they are:

Next generation apps

Google wants to see what developers and users can do with ultra high-speeds, whether it be creating new bandwidth-intensive “killer apps” and services, or other uses not even it can yet imagine.

New deployment techniques

Google will test new ways to build fiber networks, and to help inform and support deployments elsewhere.

Openness and choice

Google plans to operate an “open access” network, giving users the choice of multiple service providers.

Although, for now, Google says that the initial purpose of the project is to “experiment and learn”.

Network providers are making real progress to expand and improve high-speed Internet access, but there’s still more to be done – and Google is the King that has the money to do it.