Google launched another volley in the social networking wars last week with its field trial of its new social service Google+. Google is playing catchup to the big three networks: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. We’ll not dwell on a lengthy review of Google+ here since a thousand others have already previewed, reviewed, and re-reviewed the service. Suffice to note though, Google+ does have a few differentiating features, especially some which will appeal to those who complain of Facebook’s lack of concern over privacy and security.
First, Google+ waves goodbye to the friend request, which is the common form of invitation on other networks. Instead, users create Google+ Circles for their groups of friends, which are not made public to other users. These groups receive status updates via email rather than on the site. Groups can include Google+ members and non-members. So no more worries over what to do with a friend request or defriending.
Second, Google+ is delightfully add free (at the moment) and there are no apps yet that will plaster ad spam all over the walls of your friends. That said, advertising is likely to be inevitable but will probably along the lines of the less intrusive adds to which users of GMail are exposed.
So, while Google+ is a sleeker more private implementation of Facebook there are a handful of other fledgling social networks worth watching.
Hunch. This network connects people to their interests. Through the Hunch “Taste Graph” members are able to track everything that others in their social circle like and dislike. This allows members to view information to ease purchasing decisions or learn more about others through their preferences.
Color. This smartphone app for Android and iPhone creates a mobile social network based on a user’s location and closeness to others. Color aims to enable more effective relationships with neighbors, co-workers or others participating in an activity or event based on proximity.
foursquare. Similar to Color, foursquare is a location-based smartphone app that allows members to share location information with others in their online community. The service enables a user to bookmark details about venues, share recommendations and to discover other venues and activities propoted by others. Merchants use the service to engage with customers based on location.
Empire Avenue. This social network with a gaming flavor that enables members to “invest” virtual currency and assign a value in others who interest them. A member’s value fluctuates based on activity within the network and engagement with others.
