Learn To Internet: Google+

What is "Learn to Internet"? It's where I'll post my thoughts and other things about sites or videos you may not have heard about.

Today's Topic: Google+

What is Google+? Most simply, it's Google's attempt at social networking. You can add friends, follow people, and upload pictures and videos.

Now I know what you're thinking. "Alex, I already have Myspace for that." Wrong. There are a few key differences between Google's new service and existing social networks.

Circles

Please visit theoatmeal.com for more funny pictures!

Circles allow you to share your posts with certain groups that you create. For instance, groups Google recommends are Friends, Family, Acquaintances, Following, and more. By selecting the circles you want to share with, you ensure that only those people see what you post. In addition, only you can see your circle organization. Other's can see who's in your circles, but not where they are.

Google+ can also act like Twitter. If you add a celebrity to one of your circles, their public posts will show up in your stream.

Hangouts

Arguably the best part of Google+. With the push of a button, you can start a video chat with anyone in your circles.

"But Alex, I already use the Skype for such things." Nonsense. Hangouts allow for up to 10 people to video/instant message for free, with anyone signed in. No more messy usernames!

Another thing one can do is watch youtube videos with everyone in the circle, and comment while you watch. It's a fun and easy way to share viral videos.

Word on the stream (hurr hurr c what i did thar?) is that games will be added to Hangouts eventually.

Sparks

Sparks is a peculiar feature. It's essentially a Google search that's attached to your stream. It's surprisingly nifty. You type in a topic, and it offers to add it to your list of sparks. What does this mean? Whenever you click it on the left side of the page, it'll show you the most recent news or postings on the subject.

For instance, I'm in love with The Book of Mormon musical (something I'll touch on later). I put this as one of my sparks and clicked on it today. I found that the major players recently had an interview with CBS News and watched the video. It's really nifty.

Sparks may sound strange, but the best way to learn is to try it yourself.

...and more!

Google+ comes with everything else you've come to expect from the average social network. There's an Android App available, in which you also get a Huddle app, Google's version of group chat. One can also view their notifications whenever you visit a Google site (Google search engine, Gmail, ect.).

I'm really excited for the service. It's a tad empty right now, but with more than 10 million people, this thing's gon' grow. If you'd like an invitation, get in contact with me on FB. I'll be happy to send you one!