Latest Google+ Design Overhaul: Better Navigation, Profile Page & More
Within weeks of Facebook making its new Timeline mandatory for all users, Google+ changes its entire user interface and dare I say it looks Timeline-ish?
New Google+ Profile Page Layout
The first thing you’ll surely notice is the new Google Plus menu bar now located on the left-hand side known as the “ribbon”. This feature allows you to easily access your favorite G+ service. Additionally, Google allows you to drag and drop items on the ribbon so that you can place your favorite service on top or if you don’t use a particular service, you can drop it in the “More” box located at the bottom-left of the ribbon.If you will hover some of the applications, a set of quick actions will be presented.
Technically, the ribbon feature is a good move coming from the team however the most intriguing part is this: “We’ve also built the ribbon with the future in mind, giving us an obvious (and clutter-free) space for The Next Big Feature, and The Feature After That. So stay tuned.” Wonder what those next big features would be.
Another significant improvement is the enhanced Profile page. Your profile photo is bigger than before which is now 250 x 250 pixels. You can also customize the layout by choosing either a layout with a large photo in the background (similar to Facebook’s cover photo) or 5 single photos referred to as scrapbook.
Layout Option
A dedicated “Hangouts” page has been created containing an “always-updated” list of invitations from the people in your circles, quick access to every public or On Air hangouts, and a rotating billboard of popular hangouts, tips, and other items.
Separate Hangouts Page
The “What’s Hot” section also got a separate page and includes a “trending” column highlighting popular hash tags and keywords.
Explore Page
It seems like that the most popular features of Google+ have been given a lot more importance in this new design overhaul.
Other changes include the following:
- Full bleed photos and videos.
- A stream of conversation “cards” to easily segment updates from your circles.
- An activity drawer that highlights the community around your post.
Those inclined to doing SEO know how a Google Plus profile and some activity can help a business or a person in terms of branding as well as website rankings. And with these enhancements at hand, this platform offers un-rivalled opportunities for deep engagement and exposure. Check out the official announcement here or if you want to be updated with the latest Google+ updates, subscribe to the #googleplusupdate hash tag.