On Thursday, Facebook admitted to hiring a PR firm to work on an anti-Google marketing campaign. They admitted to influencing journalists and bloggers to write negative articles about Google’s privacy practices. Facebook insists they weren’t trying to implement a ‘smear’ campaign, but rather wanted to make the public aware of people’s dissatisfaction with Google’s collection of Facebook account information.
The entire situation shines light on their rivalry and shows how much the Internet world has changed in the past 5 years. Microsoft has recently cultivated a firmer partnership with Facebook. YouTube went to Google. Yahoo and Geocities dominated the web hosting and search engine world by the end of the 90s. Now, its running close to its end-of-life. As we look into the future, the question remains: will competition rule out or will one giant remain standing?
A Google World
When Google began to take over the search engine market, it was one static page with a simple search box. Now, you can get lost for hours in their endless stream of ‘beta’ products. Google voice, Google Talk, Google apps. . . the list of products Google supplies is limitless. In 1999, all of your applications were Microsoft Office, with a pop3 account integrated into your email program, and a simple Internet Explorer browser. Here in 2011, you can host all your documents online, with Google if you prefer, chat with your friends, email them, and use Google chrome for your browsing pleasure. They have truly became the leader in the world for Internet technology.
As much as they dominate through a multiple of technologies, they lack in their social networking and seamless integration between applications.
And Then There Was Facebook
Facebook took everyone by surprise. When the average baby bloomer started signing up by the droves, Facebook became an unstoppable force in the Internet world. As they move forward with third-party gaming and applications, virtual currencies, and advertising, it is apparent that the world of social networking will never go away. They’ve spotlighted what it means to be ‘private’ and even inspired us to stop being so afraid of showing the world who you really are.
Their simple social networking browsing experience has outshined all the other social network platforms. While they have elevated in this arena, they are lacking in other technologies. Facebook is marketed for your personal life and entertainment.
Who Will Win?
People use both Google and Facebook services simultaneously. As the competition heats up, the question remains: If left with a choice, which would you choose; Google or Facebook? Share your thoughts in our discussion group.
With the use of computers and the internet comes certain threats. If you are going to be active on the internet or in email or even if you will be only somewhat active when accessing email and the internet you should take steps to protect yourself. Two of the biggest threats right now are Virus’s and Identity/Account Theft. Below are a few simple steps you can take to protect yourself.