Test Driving Google+ (Plus)

I've been really lucky to have received an invite to Google's new entry in the social networking space, Google+ (Plus). I have to say, Google is doing a lot of things right with this effort and I'm finding it a very interesting alternative to what Facebook is doing. The concept behind Google+ is based on how we conduct our relationships in real life. We interact differently with different people in different situations. To attempt to replicate this real life experience Google has introduced the concept of "Circles". Circles allow you to place different people in different groups. This allows for controlled sharing of your information. You can have a circle for friends, family, colleagues, acquaintances, or customize a ring for any group you desire. When you post content you then can decide which circle receives access. It's a lot easier than the lists in Facebook and one gets a much better feeling of control.

Another feature in Google+ is Hangout. This feature allows you and up to nine other members of your circles to do simply that. Hangout on a video chat. Your circle members drop in and out at their convenience. The software detects who is speaking and immediately switches the focus to that participant’s camera. This helps maintain the normal flow of real life conversation.

A concept known as Sparks is also being introduced. Sparks allows you to search on just about any topic and have that information flow directly to your Stream (think Facebook wall here). You can then consume the info or share it with others in your circles using it to “spark” a conversation.

In addition to the aforementioned features there are the usual suspects - photo sharing, chat, +1, and a really interesting mobile phone concept called Huddle which allows for group chat and decision making i.e. "What are we all doing for lunch?”. One word of caution is that instant uploading is available for photos and video within the phone app. With this turned on media is immediately uploaded to a private folder and you can decide later to share it and with whom. Fortunately you can disable this feature to have more control. The interface on the phone app is simple and elegant. It does remind me a bit of the Windows Phone 7 hub interface, but hey that interface is pretty nice as well. From the main screen of the app you can access your Stream, Huddle, Photos, Profile, Circles, as well as Notifications.

I really like what Google has done with this application. They seemed to have taken care with the user interface; something Google has received criticism for in the past. It feels light and fresh. The privacy and sharing controls are obvious and accessible. Also, it's not so "in your face" like the failed effort Google Buzz. Buzz was everywhere prompting you to sign up or give it access to this that or the other. There is none of that with Google+. Simple, elegant, and smooth are the words that come to mind. Navigating the site and using the mobile app is a truly fun if not addictive experience. It's too early to say if this is going to be a serious threat to Facebook but I really don't see why it wouldn't at least be a serious alternative. At this point, I'm not seeing a whole lot to dislike. I’m excited for the beta testing to increase so more of my real world friends will have access and then we will know which direction this project will take. Great job Google, no matter the end result.