Google and Sony Pictures Entertainment have partnered to promote "The Da Vinci Code" and Google Homepage through a time-sensitive interactive contest.

Beginning Monday at 1pm EDT, Google will release one Da Vinci Code style puzzle or riddle each day through May 11th and the last puzzle for finalists on May 19, the worldwide release date of the film.

While other Internet giants, such as America Online, have typically used synergies with parent companies or other partners to create media promotions of this nature, this marks a significant move for Google.

According to Google spokeswoman Eileen Rodriguez, this is the first time Google has ever done a cross-promotional venture tied to the film industry.

The film adaptation of "The Da Vinci Code," based on Dan Brown's best-selling historical-mystery novel, could give Google access to an entirely new base of users.

Participants must enter the contest through the Da Vinci Code Quest on Google Web site, and they must have a Google Gmail account and Google Homepage.

Full article: C|net News.com