Google Privacy Policy Changes Causes a Stir

Google announced last week that, as of 1^st of March, there will be one single privacy policy that will apply to all Google products, rather than one for each (currently over 70 different policies).

As much as this may make sense to web users, there has been some drama as to the alterations in the policy, which some see as a direct infringement on our general privacy.

So what’s new?

Google have said that through the new policy, users information will be shared across their different products, combining the likes of Gmail, search and Youtube information so that a user will have one single profile. This way Google can understand users better, by what they search for combined with what they like to watch and share.

This means that Google will have more information on users so that they can provide the most relevant results and ads for users.

Have a look at this video which explains Google’s changes.

Minnie’s Verdict

The reaction has been quite mixed across the industry. A lot of users see this as Google going too far with privacy, and the holding of information shows a close resemblance with the Facebook privacy policies. However, here we are not really at all surprised at these changes. Google are well within their rights to incorporate all their products within one legal privacy policy. Hopefully this will actually mean more relevant results, and as long as Google is not sharing our information with external organisations, is there really anything for us to be worried about?

Facebook Rolls Out Timeline to All Users

Facebook announced that all users would be updated to their recent timeline platform. Over the next few weeks, all 800 million users will log in to find their profile will be replaced by the timeline. Users will then have 7 days to edit their timeline before it is displayed to other users. This will give people the chance to alter the presentation of their timeline.

As usual, this change has had mixed reviews.

On one hand, the timeline has been positively received as a way of displaying more information in a more personal way. It has allowed the integration of apps, meaning users can spend more time on Facebook enjoying pockets of programmes they like. User creativity is also encouraged through the display picture function and it is also now easier and faster to find stories and old updates.

On the other hand, it has come under criticism for simply showing off too much information. For new users it can be difficult to navigate, and many are sceptical of the idea that Facebook visually can now show all activities since birth. The largest criticism is that users do not have the choice as to whether they would like the old profile or not.

Minnie’s Mini Verdict

This is the umpteenth Facebook upgrade. Each time there has always been those who have predicted the demise of the world’s most used Social Media platform. Now with the allure of Google+ next door, will users make that leap of faith?

INFOGRAPHIC OF THE WEEK

How to Utilise Twitter

Twitter remains as one of the largest sharing sites on the internet. Despite fierce competition from Google+, Twitter is still the site of choice in terms of sharing and sending out information. Social Media Marketers use Twitter as a way of generating a high CTR and quality traffic. Below is an infographic provided by Dan Zarrella, The Social Media Scientist. Maybe it could help you when planning your next Social Media Strategy.

Public Alerts To be Part of Google Maps

Earlier this week, Google Maps announced the introduction of a new feature for users, whereby public alerts would now be displayed.

So for instance if there is a public weather warning, Google will overlay it on the map highlighting the affected area and display information in a pop-box when you mouse over the area.

The data used for the alerts comes from the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the National Weather Service and the US Geological Survery. So as well as weather in the US, users will also get alerts on techtonic movements and potential earthquake zones across the globe.

Google have said that: “We hope Google Public Alerts provides the public with information they need to make better decisions in times of crisis, and ultimately help save lives.”

Minnie’s Verdict

Google have made many moves over the last few months to enhance their image of being socially responsible in this is another move. Aside from that it also is yet another reason for Google Account holders to rely more on Google products and less on external sites. Now when planning a trip, a user can get travel news, route planner and any public announcements on Maps, making it more of a complete informational service. There is already the Google Weather add-on on iGoogle, however this may become a permanent feature on Google Maps.