* Just how hard is Google pushing the integration of Google+ in search results? Danny Sullivan at Search Engine Land counts the ways. (Search Engine Land)

* In other Google (GOOG) news, the Internet giant is renewing its push into China by hiring engineers, sales reps, and product managers to introduce features over there like Android Market or Shihui, a service that helps people search Chinese sites for local store discounts. (The Wall Street Journal)

* An in-depth profile of Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer and how he plans to make the Redmond-based company “relevant” again. Also: Microsoft (MSFT) is reportedly planning a companywide restructuring of its marketing operations, which could mean hundreds of layoffs. (Bloomberg Businessweek)

* Joe Belfiore, Microsoft VP for Windows Phone, talked about the mobile operating system at C.E.S., positioning it as a medium between Android and Apple iOS and playing up the emphasis on quality. (The Verge)

* As the leading TV vendor and one of the most successful cell phone manufacturers, John Biggs over at TechCrunch argues that Samsung could be the next Apple (AAPL). (TechCrunch)

* Has fast-growing startup Pinterest, which basically lets users collect photos and link to the products, “pinned” down the future of the Web? (Big Think)

* How automakers are improving safety as cars move towards becoming entertainment hubs, with onboard apps, games, music, and movies. (The New York Times)

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