Google has just rolled out its latest take on the news feed for its mobile app. They have designed a personalized stream of articles and videos based on our choices, searches, and past behavior online. In December 2016 Google launched an update to its app which included two sections:
'A feed that keeps you current on your interests like sports, news, and entertainment, and a section for your upcoming personal info, like flights, appointments and more.'
Google's news feed combines the most important news stories of the day with topics you’ve previously searched. What makes this feed different is you don't need to 'friend' anyone, like posts or scroll through endless pictures of babies and ridiculous memes. Instead, Google is allowing you to discover, explore and stay connected to what matters to you.
According to Google as your interests change, your feed will evolve along with you. You’ll notice that your feed will also reflect your interest level for various topics. This gives you an additional way to tell Google what you care about. The feed also has a section for all your personal appointments, upcoming events, and travel information.
The feed will pull what is trending locally, such as news, events and trending searches. Google introduced this to help you stay connected to the community around you. You can also follow your favorite topics and interests using the search bar to keep google up to date with your new interests. That being said, if you are no longer interested in a topic or trend you can unfollow it. Alternatively, Google will pick up on the fact you are no longer searching a topic and the algorithm allows that topic to eventually fade away.
They have introduced broader content and diverse perspectives to allow for a range of view points on news stories or related articles. Google wants you to stay in the know about the things you care about, all in one place.
All in all, this feed is a great solution for those who would rather have a feed full of topics they care about over posts on the things their friends care about. Although, for some this feed might feel stale and lack connection - the key reason we all use social media is to feel connected.
The new feed is available in the Google app in the US and will be rolled out internationally in the next couple of months.
What do you think of Google's news feed? Do you see the value in using it? We would love to know your thoughts, Tweet us and let us know what you think.
By Jessica Wade
I was previously the Social Media Executive for Smart Insights and managed all of Smart Insights social media channels and social strategy. I love all things social, most of the time you will find me endlessly scrolling through Instagram. You can follow me on Twitter or connect on LinkedIn.
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