Google has been one of the most popular and useful websites on the internet for years, and it seems that Google Inc. is constantly looking for ways to increase its usefulness and versatility to the public. Lately there has been quite the buzz around Google’s most recent venture, Google+, and I decided to get a better understanding of what it’s all about.
What is Google+?
Google+, also referred to as Google Plus or G+, is a new social networking site by Google Inc. It is still in the early stages, having been released on June 28, 2011. Aimed at introducing fresh, easy ways to share information, Google+ is being cautiously regarded as the Facebook Killer, and with its overwhelming popularity (it reached 20 million users just three weeks after the trial launch), it just might be.
What makes Google+ worthwhile?
All social networking sites have been pushed into the backseat by Facebook, so it takes a fair bit of innovation to be successful in such a dominated market. Google+ flaunts a few interesting features:
Circles – allows you to click-and-drag your friends into different groups to make sharing information that much easier
Hangouts – a live video chat that can be between multiple people
Instant Upload – photos and videos are automatically uploaded from your phone to a private album on Google+
Sparks – a search engine which allows you to find cool content based on your interests
Huddle – a group chat feature
The Catch:
Google+ is currently still under a trial mode, and is not yet available to the entire public. Google is, however, allowing you to enter your email address and receive a notification when more users are allowed to join.
For an online tour and more information on Google+, visit www.google.com/+/learnmore/.
While the likelihood of Google+ wiping out Facebook as a primary destination for connecting with friends and family is very slim, it does add an interesting dynamic to the social networking world. From what information is available about the new site, do you think it’s something you’ll want to join? And, if yes, do you think it’s something you’ll actually use?
