Google+'s Stream & what a Post looks like

In my last blog about Google+'s features, I wasn't able to log in. Last night I got a second attempt at an invite to work. So far, I'm liking what I am seeing. It is very intuitive and clean looking. For those of you that may be thinking learning a whole new platform would be a daunting task, don't worry because there are similar features found in Facebook, but taken a step or two further.

For the timid, this blog will focus first on the Stream, which is similar to Facebook's Newsfeed. Although similiar, the stream is slightly different. The stream is content that has been shared specifically with you by people in your circles and also a collection of people who share information with you but may not necessarily be in your circle.

Circles function similar to your real-world circles of fiends, family, co-workers, and acquaintances. I put all of my family in a Circle, friends in another Circle, etc. This makes sharing content easier by directing specifically which circle can see a specific post, image, video, article, or link. Google has a video on Circles.

Here's a screenshot of my very first post on Google+ :

Upon looking at the image, it appears similar to a Facebook post. Take a closer look though. Above my actual post is my name, the time I posted, and the word "Limited".  What does Limited mean?

When one is about to post a statement, video, link, or photo, they have the option to post it publicly to everyone, to extended circles, or to a limited group. I had chosen to only share that post with my Circle called Family. Hence the word Limited on my post. Since this is my post, if I click Limited at, I will see the profile pictures of everyone that I shared it with. If someone else posted with Limited, I can click Limited to view the profile pictures of up to 21 other people who also can see that post. I can click through to a specific person's profile or add them to one of my circles.

Have you been noticing all the +1's in your Google searches? Michael Perry clicked on the +1 button on my post. That is similar to the Like button on Facebook, by expressing that you like, agree with, or recommend a piece of content on the Internet. The +1 helps Google improve the content you see in searches. Watch this video on +1.  People can also comment and share on your post.

What do you think of Google+? Do you think it will take down Facebook? Or will they share the marketplace?

Citation:

The Google+ Project. (2011). Help Center. Retrieved from http://www.google.com/support/+/