'Idol' bits: new voting methods, Clay Aiken, Carrie Underwood, Phillip Phillips

"American Idol" is adding some intriguing voting elements this year.

This includes real-time Google searches as part of the "voting." I'm not sure how this will work but apparently whenever you hunt for a particular singer on Google, a voting  platform will pop up. I'm not sure when people will be able to vote this way.

Toll-free calling, the only option the first few seasons, will still be available. Then texting came along partway through. Last year, they added Facebook and an American Idol app.

"Idol" will also add a new wrinkle: real-time voting results while the performance show is happening. starting Feb. 26 during the first finalist performance show.

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Carrie Underwood is the new face of Almay.

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More stories keep coming out that Clay Aiken is serious about running as a Democratic candidate for a North Carolina house seat.