Google has unveiled a major refresh for its Google+ social network, adding trending features and displaying images larger.
Claiming it now had 170 million users, the company said it was “introducing a more functional and flexible version of Google+”.
Although the company claims 100 million of Google+ members used the service in the last month, critics have questioned the level of user interaction, and the revamps looks to address those issues.
In a blog post outlining the changes, Google said it improved how pictures and videos are displayed, and added “cards” that should make it easier to find and join relevant discussions, whether with friends or strangers interested in the same subjects.
Google+ redesigned with more white space, as if an empty news feed wasn’t white space enough
The company said tools such as a rotating display of popular Hangouts and easier access to public Hangouts would make it easier to “meet someone new” using the video chat system.
Google also highlighted tools that will be familiar to Twitter users, such as a “new explore page that shows what’s interesting and trending across the network”.
However, the new look has met with mixed reactions from users, with Twitter posters poking fun at the new design.
“Google+ redesigned with more white space, as if an empty news feed wasn’t white space enough,” posted ComedyCentralIn on Twitter.
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