Over a week ago Google launched Buzz, their answer to Twitter. Buzz is fully integrated into Gmail. Google says, “it allows you to share updates, photos, videos and start conversations about the things you find interesting. You’re already following the people you email and chat with the most in Gmail. Follow your friends and get recommended buzz from others. Comments appear right in your inbox so it’s easy to keep the conversation going.” It’s another channel in your inbox in which conversations occur.
I immediately enjoyed the service and started chatting with my friends. However I didn’t realize all my conversations were going to be public. I also didn’t realize that all my contacts would be accessible by contacts of contacts. Since then Google has put into place a way to turn off your Buzz account and limit who can see your contracts. I still have turned the service off until further notice.
My first question on Buzz was, “Is Google spreading themselves thin with Buzz? or is this the evolution of Search? I think its the next stage.” Dan Runion said, “When you have more money than God you can’t be spread thin. Besides, it seems to be a simple extention/leveraging of Gmail. No brainer for them IMO.” Michael Kimmel said, “I kind of agree Marc. How many things can they possibly concentrate on at once. I thought they were pushing Wave, but the buzz around that (pun intended) has really died down.” The common thread seemed to exclaim that Google Wave had immediate excitement and then died down, now Buzz is generating the same excitement.
Will Buzz just be another flash in the pan like Wave or will it be a true competitor to Twitter?
http://www.google.com/buzz
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