Google Extends Its Reach with the Sidewiki
Just when you thought that Google could not possibly rule a larger portion of the internet, they make an attempt at expanding this hegemony. With the recent release of Google Sidewiki, Google will have control of information on our websites. The Sidewikki is a part of the Google Toolbar and allows people to leave comments on a side bar on websites. In an effort to avoid the much anticipated spam, Google is implementing an algorithm to rank these comments. In other words, they will be controlling information on our websites, to their preference.
Of course, this innovation does appear to add some value to the user experience and Google does introduce it with the most humane intentions. They propose it as implementing the way a business wiki would be used, but on a mass scale. Google highlights the feature as a way to share knowledge and helpful advice, stating “What if everyone, from local expert to a renowned doctor, had an easy way of sharing their insights with you? What if you could add you own insights for others passing through?” They even presented a video which outlined the definitely possible benefits and worth of this service.
What they forgot to ask the user is; what if Google could control this information and rank as well as share these comments in the best interest of their advertising schemes? I would also expect the quality of these user contributions to be inconsistent and, to be honest, often useless or annoying. Reports have already come in that Google has left brand bashing comments from users on its competitor’s websites. Microsoft is described as “useless” and “crap” on Microsoft.com while Apple is slammed at apple.com for lying and shipping products with “severe bugs”.
One can’t help but wonder what Google will do with this information. Comments can be valuable in terms of sentiment analysis which, alongside the various related links posted, could be used to influence search results. With billions of websites out there, and an increasing amount of user commenting, the scale of this seemingly slight addition could be massive. There is no doubt that it could provide a useful service to someone browsing a site. With insightful comments, related information, and links to similar posts/articles, users are being exposed to more of the information they desire. What also leaves little doubt is the fact that it puts Google one step closer to its goal of controlling the internet, and in turn, becoming the epicentre of daily life.
+1
Loading ...