Google has this week introduced a new service called “Badges” for US Google account holders, which now allows them to earn badges as they read articles on Google News. If you’re signed-in to a Google account and have web history enabled, you will earn badges as you click on articles in Google News. Both desktop and mobile clicks earn you badges.
How Google News Badges Work
The new Google News badges feature is private by default, but you can configure settings to share your badges with friends via social networking sites, if desired. When Google+ goes mainstream, expect Badges to play a part within Google’s new social network as well. This integration could potentially make sharing your reading habits and achievements more seamless and engaging. Watch the promotional video from Google after the jump.
The more you read, the higher level badge you’ll receive. The rankings start at Bronze, then move up the ladder to Silver, Gold, Platinum, and finally, Ultimate. There are more than 500 badges available, so whatever your taste, you should start receiving badges. This gamification of news reading not only incentivizes users to consume more content but also helps them track their interests and expertise in various topics.
Benefits and Potential Uses
One of the significant benefits of the Google News Badges system is that it encourages users to diversify their reading habits. By offering a wide range of badges, Google motivates users to explore different topics and categories they might not have considered before. This can lead to a more well-rounded understanding of current events and issues.
Moreover, the badges can serve as a personal record of your reading history, allowing you to look back and see how your interests have evolved over time. For educators and students, this feature could be particularly useful. Teachers could encourage students to earn badges in specific subjects, making learning more interactive and engaging.
Additionally, businesses and marketers could leverage this feature to understand consumer interests better. By analyzing which badges are most popular, companies can tailor their content to meet the demands of their audience more effectively.
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, features like Google News Badges represent a step towards more personalized and interactive online experiences. By rewarding users for their engagement, Google not only enhances user satisfaction but also fosters a more informed and connected community.
In conclusion, Google News Badges offer a unique and engaging way to interact with news content. Whether you’re a casual reader or a news junkie, there’s something for everyone. So, start reading, start earning, and see how many badges you can collect!
Source: Google
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