Google announced last year that it would be shutting down Google Plus in 2019, and the search giant has now revealed that content on the platform will be deleted starting from April.
From the 2nd of April 2019, Google will start to delete photos, comments, and Google Plus pages, so any content you want to save from there needs to be done before this date.
Starting April 2, 2019, we will shut down your Google+ account and any pages you created, and we’ll begin deleting content from consumer Google+ accounts. Photos and videos from Google+ in your Album Archive and your Google+ pages will also be deleted. If you have Google+ content that you would like to save, you must do so before April 2nd.
Why is Google Plus Shutting Down?
Google Plus, initially launched in 2011, was Google’s ambitious attempt to create a social networking platform that could rival Facebook. Despite its initial hype and a significant number of sign-ups, the platform struggled to maintain active users and engagement. Over the years, it became evident that Google Plus could not compete with other social media giants. The final nail in the coffin came when a security vulnerability was discovered, potentially exposing user data. This incident accelerated Google’s decision to shut down the platform for consumers.
How to Save Your Google Plus Content
If you have valuable content on Google Plus that you wish to preserve, Google provides a way to download and save your data. Here are the steps you need to follow:
1. Visit Google Takeout: Go to the [Google Takeout](https://takeout.google.com/) page.
2. Select Google Plus Data: In the list of Google services, find and select Google Plus data, including your posts, photos, and videos.
3. Choose File Type and Delivery Method: Decide on the file type and how you want to receive your data (e.g., via email or direct download).
4. Create Archive: Click on “Create Archive” to start the process. Depending on the amount of data, this might take some time.
5. Download Your Data: Once the archive is ready, download it to your device.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your memories and important information from Google Plus are not lost.
Impact on Businesses and Communities
The shutdown of Google Plus also affects businesses and communities that used the platform for networking and engagement. Many businesses had integrated Google Plus into their marketing strategies, using it to connect with customers and share updates. Communities that thrived on Google Plus will need to find new homes on other social media platforms or community forums.
For businesses, it is crucial to transition smoothly to other platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, or Twitter. They should inform their followers about the change and provide alternative ways to stay connected. Communities can consider platforms like Reddit, Discord, or specialized forums that cater to their interests.
Looking Forward
While the end of Google Plus marks the conclusion of an era, it also opens up opportunities for new and existing platforms to innovate and fill the void. Users and businesses alike can explore other social media networks that offer unique features and better engagement.
The shutdown of Google Plus is a significant event in the social media landscape. Users must act quickly to save their content before April 2, 2019, and businesses should strategize their transition to other platforms. The lessons learned from Google Plus’s rise and fall will undoubtedly shape the future of social networking.
You can find out more details about Google Plus being shut down over at Google’s website at the link below.
Source Google, Venturebeat
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