Google Inc. (Nasdaq:GOOG) will launch its internet history feature, an expanded version of the search history function, in 26 languages, including Hebrew. The new feature will enable users to quickly find previously visited websites and effectively go back to any place visited on the internet, including search results, web pages, e-mails, pictures, and video clips.
To operate the search history feature, the user must open an account with Google and then select the internet history for inclusion on the Google toolbar. The launch is part of Google’s vision of personalized search results on the basis of previous searches and websites visited. For example, if a user’s search history indicates a greater interest in the sciences than cars, a search for “GM” will give priority to genetically modified foods over General Motors.
The search history function raises many questions about users’ privacy, and is raising quite a bit of paranoia about the growing power of “Big Brother”.
Google is trying to allay these concerns. During a visit to Israel last week, Google VP search products and user experience Marissa Mayer said that the company gives users the right to decide whether to activate the new software or not.
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes.co.il - on August 2, 2007
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