Today, Google has announced and rolled out a number of new features to its Google+ social network, in preparation for the holidays. With the aim to help you keep track of everything important while in Google+, Google has added new features that allow you to add fine-grained controls within your Google+ account. These controls will enable you to “graphic-equalize” and fine-tune your stream, ensuring you don’t miss anything from your most important Google+ contacts. Watch three videos after the jump explaining a few of the new features Google has added, as well as new additions to Google+ Pages.
Enhanced Stream Controls
One of the most significant updates is the introduction of enhanced stream controls. These controls allow users to prioritize the content they see from their circles. For instance, if you have a circle of close friends and family, you can now ensure their posts appear more prominently in your stream. This feature is particularly useful during the holiday season when staying connected with loved ones is paramount. By adjusting the sliders, you can control the volume of posts from different circles, effectively customizing your Google+ experience to suit your preferences.
Google explains:
“We hope that you enjoy these improvements and continue to provide us feedback. It’s been an incredible year for us on the Google+ team. While this indeed has been a #seasonforshipping, Google+ users know that we believe that shipping is always in season! We’ve been busy making some resolutions for 2012, and we think you’re going to love them.”
Google+ Pages Enhancements
In addition to stream controls, Google has also introduced several enhancements to Google+ Pages. These pages are essential for businesses, brands, and public figures to connect with their audience. The new features include better page management tools, allowing multiple administrators to manage a single page. This is a significant improvement for businesses that rely on teamwork to maintain their social media presence. Additionally, Google+ Pages now offer more detailed analytics, helping page owners understand their audience better and tailor their content accordingly.
For more information on the new Google+ features, jump over to the Google blog post.
Another notable addition is the improved notification system. Google+ now offers more granular control over notifications, allowing users to choose the types of notifications they receive and how they are alerted. This means you can opt to receive notifications only for the most critical updates, reducing the noise and ensuring you stay informed about what matters most to you.
Moreover, Google has made strides in integrating Google+ with other Google services. For example, Google+ Hangouts have been enhanced to support more participants and offer better video quality. This makes it easier for users to host virtual gatherings, whether for personal or professional purposes. The integration with Google Calendar also means you can schedule Hangouts directly from your calendar, streamlining the process of organizing virtual meetings.
These updates reflect Google’s commitment to continuously improving the Google+ platform based on user feedback. The company has emphasized that while the holiday season is a time for shipping new features, they view innovation as a year-round endeavor. As we look forward to 2012, Google+ users can expect even more exciting developments that will enhance their social networking experience.
Source: Google
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