or Google Plus, or G+, is a social network and identity service from Google. The service has started as a closed beta in June of 2011. G+ features “Circles”, which is a convenient way to group contacts and “Hangouts”, which are virtual places where people users can gather in the form of a webcast. Many consider Hangouts to be an alternative to paid multi-party video conferencing services. G+ continues to grow rapidly and it is estimated that within a year, almost one quarter of the adult U.S population will have a G+ account. (last updated on 12/21/2011)

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