Google Launches Into Social Media with Google+

Does it have what it takes to rival Facebook?

I know, I know, this is actually Google's third attempt at delving into the interactive tapestry of social media, however, this time, it might just catch on. For those that have not heard, Google has recently launched a social media site. For those familiar with Facebook (all 700 million of them), the layout might look a little familiar, as well as many of the features. Below are the main attractions of Google +.

Circles
The first feature one will probably encounter is the ability to make groups of friends. These are called "Circles". You do this by naming your group (co-workers, friends, hockey team etc.) and then dragging and dropping your contacts into these Circles. Everything you share, or the other features you use from this point on can now be done with everybody or only people in specific circles.

Sparks
When you first view Sparks you will see a search bar where you fill in your interests. You will then be provided with web content (blogs, videos, reading material, articles etc.) that relate to your interests. If you see something you like, you can add it to your interests list, or view what other people enjoy with similar interests.

Instant Upload
Instant Upload allows you to share photos and videos with 1 click from an app on your Android Phone or iPhone app.

Huddle
This is a group messaging app for iPhone, Android and SMS that allows you to communicate with people in Circles.

Hangouts
A group chat feature. There is actually a lot more to it than simple group chat. To begin, if you're already chatting with someone in a Circle, everyone in the Circle will get an alert to hang out in the chat. You might wonder how you could fit 9 other chat windows on the screen.

Well, behind the scenes, the Hangout feature actually attempts to focus the conversation on whoever the "main character" would be at the time. You can also share content such as YouTube videos for everyone to watch, while the conversation continues uninterrupted.

Whether or not Google + will catch on like Facebook, or grow to compete with it is anybody's guess. Currently, the site is Invite-Only, as it is still in its beta version, but it will eventually be opened to the public, and so far it has done well, amassing 20 million members in its first three weeks. Only 680 million more people to go!