Google has just launched their first API for Google +. Right now it is limited to public data, but this is great news not only for developers but for users. Look out for third-party apps that helps users make the most out of Google + (a.k.a Google Plus), in the same way that third-party Twitter tools like Hootsuite, TweetMeme and Bit.Ly have made life a lot easier for businesses promoting through Twitter.
Chris Chabot of Google+ Developer Relations explains,
“We want every one of you who builds applications to be able to include rich sharing, identity, and conversations in your app.”
“Google+ gives users full control over their information, supporting everything from intimate conversations with family to public showcases and debates…This initial API release is focused on public data only — it lets you read information that people have shared publicly on Google+.”
“Because we’re starting with public data only, you simply need to register your app before making requests…And if you aren’t yet sure which Google+ user is running your app (for example, because they’re installing it for the first time), then you can use the new plus.me OAuth2 scope to ask the user who they are.”
To start using the API to build apps or integrate into existent apps, visit the Google+ Platform developer site. All apps need to be approved by Google. Just remember to follow 3 simple guidelines:
1. Put the user first
2. Be transparent
3. Respect user data
Personally, I’m looking forward to what developers can do with Google + Circles and Hangouts.
Thanks for sharing this news on Google+ API and I love the simplicity of the three guidelines you’ve stated above. I guess, we’ll be seeing a lot of synching and automation tools taking advantage of that. Though, I think that one must automate responsibly.. and it’s not that bad, so long as you take Pareto’s 80/20 rule to your social media marketing mix: as in 80% conversation and 20% automation.