Larry Page has made social networking a top priority since he took over as chief executive in April. With Google+, Google integrates its services into one common social platform. Much like facebook, Google+ will let you share photos, messages comments. There is also an option to organize contacts within groups.
When i logged in for the first time(you need to be invited as on June, 28. 2011), it felt like that Google has reproduced much of the features of Facebook like profile pictures and newsfeeds forming a central core while adding a Gtalk video chat functionality in addition.
Clearly this move is aimed towards bringing more visitors to Google who now spend more time on sites like Facebook and Twitter. Google has been behind many small game development companies across the world to integrate online games right into its social platform.
Google+ Features:
- Circles – Allows users to share different forms of content with targeted group of friends
- Hangouts – Live multi-user video group conferencing
- Huddle – Group IM
- Sparks – Connects individuals on the network to others with common interests.
The equation is simple: Social web + page views + engagement = Advertising dollars
and Google know this!
So what happens to Google’s acquired Social Networking Platform – Orkut?
Google bought Orkut in 2007, and it was partly successful in Asian countries to some extent. But Facebook is way ahead of Orkut in terms of Usability and User experience. Only time will tell what Google does with Orkut after launching the new social platform Google+.
Personally, i like competition when its healthy. But the question is People already have their social circles on sites like Facebook – thus creating another social circle becomes increasingly challenging when you now most of friends are on facebook!
Dipesh
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