What came to your mind when you heard Google+ (read: Google Plus) for the first time? I thought Google+ was a kinda advanced search engine. Then, when I opened up http://plus.google.com, I was totally wrong. That's the icon of Google+ project. Yep, Google never leaves its characteristic: a simple logo with fun and eye-catching colors. Facebook uses "f" for its logo. Twitter used "t" - but now, a bird - as its icon, while Google uses "g". I wonder whether one-letter logo makes a company successful. lol.
For now, Google+ is still in BETA version. I have registered for the BETA Tester, and thanks to my friend who has invited me. This is the screenshot :
Very simple in layout. If you think that it's similar to Facebook, don't worry, you're not alone.The slogan of Google+ :
"Real-life sharing, rethought for the web."
Is it really that good? Let's check it out!Feature #1 : Circles
This feature is similar to Facebook's group. It lets you share things to group of people you've categorized. In other words, you'll still be able to do stupid things without your boss' knowing by putting your boss to "the untouchable" circle. How evil I am. lol. If you watch the video, you will love the interface of it.
Feature #2 : Sparks
Friends always have some things in common. This feature will enable you to subscribe to feeds that you really cannot live without. There will always be newsworthy things that will get rid your boredom. Discuss things with your friends. Anything. Yes, anything. Stay up to date with things that fascinate you the most!
Feature #3 : Hangouts
Finally, the feature I've been waiting for for Social Networking has been brought to reality. Woah.. I wonder how many people will be able to gather in the real-life-in-cyber-world live streaming. It looks so fun. No need to install a software to have a video chat. However, I wonder whether it needs much bandwidth. As you might have known, the internet connection in Indonesia is.. somehow.. slower than a Llama. Well, for busy people, this feature will be very beneficial since they'll be able to have meeting throughout the web.
Feature #4 : Instant Upload (For Mobile)
Do you hate it the most when you have to upload your photos you have taken? With this feature, photos and videos are automatically uploaded to your Google+ account. However, they won't be published until you decide to publish it. In other words, you'll just need to click publish if you're ready to publish them.
Feature #5 : Huddle (For Mobile)
Well, it's not very special, I guess. It provides us with group chat. Simple yet useful. But there is no specialty which distinguish this chat with other services. However, I love the GUI. So tidy.
Facebook's "Like" VS Google+'s "+1"
If Facebook has Like button, then Google+ has "+1" button. This very simple button will spread around the web in no time. So, what's so special with this button? This button is more likely a recommendation button for your friends. It will adjust the spotlight to things you give points to. The more people press the +1 button, the more popular the content will be on the feeds. The points will be visible at Google search (if you have logged into Google+). So, this will be very beneficial for recommending your friends about something need-to-be-visited on the web. Happy sharing! Below is the video for this feature, in case you need more detailed information.
Basically, the market of Social Networking is really being competed. Friendster closed down few months ago and has begun a new start for Friendster games. Facebook is still on its peak, and so is Twitter. In my opinion, Google+ will give more secure private data compared to Facebook. Yes, Facebook lacks of managing personal data, our privacy is not really well-protected in Facebook. Google, as what we have known, is more expert since it has existed for more than a decade. So, will this Google+ be the Facebook killer? Let's wait and see while enjoying the features. :)
Thanks for reading! I hope this post can expand your knowledge.
The writing above is just my opinion, so, if you have different point of view, let's discuss it together!
Please leave some comments!! Thanks.
F.A.Q. :
How can I register?
Well, many of my friends ask me about how to join this G+.
Actually, Google+ is still in BETA version. You have to get invitation from other users first.
If you're really interested to join, you can contact me, by leaving your comment below, or just contact me through FB / Twitter. Thanks :D
F.A.Q. :
How can I register?
Well, many of my friends ask me about how to join this G+.
Actually, Google+ is still in BETA version. You have to get invitation from other users first.
If you're really interested to join, you can contact me, by leaving your comment below, or just contact me through FB / Twitter. Thanks :D
