Screwing around with Google Reader yesterday, I noticed something new!
Google Reader Play is a fun way to browse interesting stuff on the web. Give it a try!
As someone who likes to try new things, especially on the Internet, I immediately gave it a whirl.
What I found was entertaining, pleasant, easy-to-use, and actually kind of useful. I was distracted by Google Reader Play for at least 20 minutes before I realized I was wasting a serious chunk of time.
If you already use Google Reader, you have to try Google Reader Play; it’s a nice bit of “fluff” when you don’t feel like tackling the 1,000+ unread items you’ve accumulated with your RSS subscriptions.
According to the official Google Reader blog, Google Reader Play was intended for people who aren’t sure whether or not they want to commit to Google Reader. With Play, these people can preview what’s being shared via Google Reader.
Of course, anyone can use Google Reader Play, but you need a Google account in order to “star”, share, or comment on any of the items in the feed.
As you scroll through the slideshow of blogged items from all over the web (video, articles, photos, etc.), you notice that the selections are all very random. Think of Google Reader Play as channel-surfing on the Internet. But it’s better than channel-surfing. Why? The content has been pre-approved by other Google users who subscribe to the blogs where this content is posted.
Google Reader Play even has Pandora Radio-like features; if you enjoy something, you can tell Google, and the feed will show you more things that Google thinks you will like.
I seriously love Google Reader Play as a distraction (as if I didn’t have enough distractions online), and I think everyone should give it a try. It’s a nice way to clear your head when you’re working on the Internet and just need a few minutes to clear your mind. You will probably find something new and interesting in the meantime!
Unlike Google Buzz, which Google presented with a lot of fanfare, experiments like Google Reader Play showcase the best of the company’s creative talent and passion for innovation.
I know Google is a big company with a large marketing department that likes formality and fireworks, but Google impresses me most when they sneak these neat little features into the tools I already use. Social media serendipity is the most beautiful thing.
So Google’s version of StumbleUpon? Interesting…