Tools and Technology:
Google launches Google+, a quasi-Facebook competitor
Undeniably, the biggest news in social media this week was the rollout of Google’s Google+. While it’s clear what Google is trying to do, it is still unclear whether or not it will work. Essentially, Google has explained that they want to launch a social network through Google+ that more closely mimics real world interactions. For example, you can tell other users when you’re simply “hanging out” and looking for someone to talk to or some distractions. Rather than just “friending” one another, Google+ allows users to group their friends in a more “real life” manner.
It’s pretty obvious that Google is directly targeting Facebook and wants to be a big social players themselves. And while they continue to deny it, sources have said that the project is even referred to as “Googbook” internally. Subtle. Besides, after finding out that users spend 62% more time on Facebook than on Google last month, I would bet that they have some pretty good motivation.
The question then becomes, will Google be able to pull this off? They have had a plethora of social flops in the past (Orkut, anyone?) and confidence in their social abilities is weary. But Google+ seems to be having a different impact, at least right out of the gate. The discussions, contrasts and comparisons are astonishing. Everyone has their own opinion but personally, I have put my faith into Google social products one too many times and am not convinced in what I’ve seen. I don’t think Facebook should be worried.
There is plenty of potential, but when you really get down to it, how many of us are going to give up the “accomplishment” of having over 700 friends and 1,000 photos tagged? It’s a socially cultural change that I’m not positive many people will be willing to make. That’s not to say that Google+ won’t have its followers. There are some pretty nice features about it, from a social perspective. For example, connections do not need to be two-way, eliminating any clutter from people you don’t actually care about in your stream. And once it is public to everyone, it will be extremely interesting to see how Google promotes in in the effort to give Facebook a run for its money. With a loyal fan-base of their own, they could manage quite a stir. But once the initial excitement dies down, I honestly believe we’ll be seeing more of the same. Pre-Launch. Industry Excitement. Public Launch. “Surprising” Indifference. Industry Criticism. Quiet Retraction. Facebook Prevails.
What do you think? Do you think that Google+ has the potential to succeed in becoming a major social player? Have you tried it out? Let me know!
Other Must-Read Headlines this week:
Measurement: Brands grapple with social media conundrum: Does it pay?
Ah, this age-old question was largely discussed at this years Cannes festival, with some interesting insights as a result.
Communities: Social networking ‘utopia’ isn’t coming
If you’re waiting for the day that everyone will be Facebook friends, and follow each other on Twitter, don’t hold your breath.
Partnerships: With AmEx Partnership, Foursquare May Prove Social Media’s Real ROI
Foursquare and AmEx have joined forces, to offer users discounts for checking in at specific stores. 
Influencers: Twitter co-founders to launch new startup
Three of the key players in the launch of Twitter have decided to try their luck with one more startup again.
Fun Stuff: 8 Ways Social Media Has Changed Our Lives
In honor of Social Media day yesterday, let’s take a look at eight ways that Social Media has changed our lives. What did you do to celebrate?
