Building on the success of Google Gadgets (which allow developers to make small web “applets” suitable for embedding on any webpage), Google has just launched their OpenSocial API. Basically they’ve extended the functionality of Gadgets to include code that can “talk to” participating social networks — that is, a developer now has access to the user’s profile, friend list, and much more.
This is important because it means application developers no longer have to choose which social networks they want to target. They just write their application using the JavaScript APIs provided by Google, and it will “just work” for everyone on a participating network. And it’s a big and growing list: MySpace, Orkut, LinkIn, Friendster, and – importantly – the create-your-own-social-network Ning, just to name a few. Cool stuff.
There are currently 23000 gadgets listed in the directory. After today I wonder how many of those are now in line to have some social features added and massively increase their exposure?
The Walker doesn’t have any social network apps just yet, but when we do I guarantee they will be built using this API. Maybe a Hot Or Not of contemporary art? Hmm. Or see what your friends thought of the Frida show! Or mnartists.org should copy this great idea… Could be huge!
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