If there couldn’t possibly be another social network that could challenge the two powerhouses, Twitter and Facebook, Google has taken it on with its newest project, Google+. While the program is still in beta, the network has created quite a buzz and garnered 10 million users in the short weeks it has been open.
Google+ users can get a native app for the Android platform – iPhone users must still wait but can take advantage of the web app, which is quite good. Access to the social network is invitation only, making Google+ one of the most demanding systems to date.
One of the features that stands out from Facebook is Huddle, an instant messaging system that resembles a text messaging feature. The user is also able to invite a group of friends into a huddle for a more productive conversation instead of hassling with the clutter of IM’s in a super fast and timely manner. Facebook for Android is delayed in receiving IM’s a majority of the time; Google’s Huddle on Android is instant and flawless.
With permission from the user, pictures and videos taken on the mobile device will be automatically uploaded to Google+ and stored in a private album to be handled later.
Another interesting feature provided by the network is Circles, a simple way to control the information shared with the right people. If a status would be suitable for a group of friends but not so much for family or a boss, these circles can be blocked from viewing the status or any pictures and comments.
Pictures and albums are organized automatically by pictures “from your circles,” and “from your phone.” The system is simple, but works relatively well at keeping things in their place.
Users will find Google+ similar to their current social network system and have an easy time navigating and learning the new interface. Fans and users seem to have no objections about complexities of Google+, only praise and pleads for an invite from current users to get into the hot new trend.
Download Google+ from Android Market
On Target:
- Huddle is excellent for instant messaging
- Fast-growing, trendy service
Off the Mark:
- The stream can get cluttered, much like Facebook.
[...] var addthis_config = {"data_track_clickback":true};The iPhone crowd no longer has to envy their Android-toting friends when it comes to using Google+. The iOS version, which launched in the App Store yesterday, is [...]