3:50pm UK, Friday July 01, 2011
Google's new social media site reached its user limit within two days of launching a system test, it emerged today.
Google+, the networking site hoped to rival Facebook reached its full capacity, forcing the company to shut down the invite mechanism within two days of its opening. Word spread as any user was allowed to invite any contact.
The new concept is currently being tested within a field trial to gain feedback.
A spokeswoman for Google said, "As part of the trial, we may open and close Google+ to new users at any time. We're thrilled so many people are interested in trying out a new approach to online sharing."
Google+ is the company's third attempt to take on social network rivals. Both Buzz and Wave previously failed to take off due to privacy issues.
Google Plus allows friends to be kept in 'Circles'
Modelled on Facebook this attempt aims to take the concept one step further.
Rather than one large pool of friends, its Circles enable separation and users to, "share what matters with people who matter." The Hangouts section allow online group video chats. The mobile application features GPS, instant uploads and is more functional with the Android.
Its strategy for success lies with integration, claims the firm.
The social network is fully integrated with other Google services such as Gmail and its search engine. Users on the search engine will be informed of notifications.
Stuart Miles, founder of gadget review site Pocket-lint, told Sky News: "Google hasn't had a good track record but this may be third time lucky.
"They have looked at what Facebook does and what it can do to make it better than Facebook."
However, Facebook has a strong user base. The average visitor in May spent 375 minutes per month on Facebook compared to 231 minutes for Google.
A notable issue is that contacts are non-transferable from Facebook to Google+ when a person leaves.
This poses a problem for Google. Facebook is well established across the world apart from areas in Asia including Thailand.
However, most countries there have their own social network sites such as Mixi in Japan. China, who has blockages on Facebook and Twitter, has already banned usage of Google Plus.
Technology expert, Keith Woolcock, told Sky News: "Google reminds me of Germany in WWII where it just can't win. On one front it has a battle with Microsoft and now it is battling with Facebook. Even if it comes up with new features everyone will just copy it."
Google has widened its range of innovations but this has had little impact on its share price, said Mr Woolcock.
"Google has many different ventures and is diversifying away from its core search function with little success."
No hay comentarios:
Publicar un comentario