Everybody is trying to understand what Google+ is. Tons of websites, blogs and online magazines are discussing Google+. Millions of users are popping in this new social environment making it a very interesting phenomenon.
Today, I have used Hangout, the brand new G+ feature, to have a contemporary view of YouTube videos with a colleague from another office. It was a test to check features and behaviors. I have started the hangout inviting him.
Hangout Collective Video Viewing
We both can search for a video on YouTube, start it and move forward and backward in the timeline. Our computer microphones are automatically set in mute mode allowing us to fully enjoy the video. A button “Push to Talk” is there if we wish to share opinions. Once pressed, the video’s volume fades down.
Overlay advertising appears simultaneously BUT with different content. On my side Pixmania banner (yesterday I was on Pixmania searching for tech), on my colleague’s side a banner from educational institution.
We both can also inviting other friends from our respective circles, allowing to meet and greet with people we do not know.
Leaving the hangout (I was the “host”), my colleague can stay there finishing to enjoy the video.
Suddenly a connection flashed between my neurons: “Did YouTube started to rent movies?”
I would like to rent a movie and share it with my friends via Google+ Hangout. Do you remember when you went to Blockbuster and invited your friends to a “pizza and movie” night?
Cover image credits: Some rights reserved by boeke
Published June 26, 2011
Category: Business Model, Interaction, Social Network, TV2.0
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