Over and over, I’ve written about new interfaces to search. Google’s recent introduction of Latitude gets us closer. A few snippets and thoughts:
First, the big type on Google’s site says this: “See where your friends are on a map.” I don’t know about you, but it sure sounds like something Facebook should have done first. Maybe they have and I missed it? Just a thought.
Second, to sign up, you just put in your phone number. Neat, huh? Yes, it sure is – for Google, which wants to build a big database of mobile numbers for, oh, about a million different reasons.
Third, if you look at how the service works (see screen shot), what does it look like? Yep, it sure does look like Twitter, don’t it? Sure does.
Fourth, if you don’t think there is a business model here, you’re not paying attention. Location + personal data + friend network + AdWords = major commerce and marketing opportunity.
Facebook, Twitter, and Google are all circling this model. First to act like a media company wins.