Google's new social networking service Google+ may make up even more ground on Facebook (News - Alert) if the military approves the use of the communication tool.
USA Today has reported that at least one branch – the U.S. Navy – is looking into whether Google (News 
- Alert)+ is a viable option for sharing information with family and friends.
"We're considering it," Lt. Lesley Lykins, the Navy's director of emerging media integration, told the news source. "We're still waiting to see the platform itself."
Google+ may have an advantage over Facebook, Twitter (News - Alert) and other social media sites due to the manner in which it allows users to share content. The new social network can help users create "circles," or specific groups of family, friends or work associates who will receive tailored content. This way, members of the Navy don't need to worry about confidential or personal information heading out to the masses.
The paper points out that Google's in-app video chatting client could also make it an appealing option for sailors who are away from their family for long stretches of time. As one would expect, the Navy will need to look into the security features offered by Google+ before signing off on the platform.
Unfortunately, the Navy can't join the network itself. Google+ has yet to launch its business trial program, and has been pulling any accounts that aren't associated with a singular person.
Several major names including Mashable, Ford and Sesame Street had their Google+ accounts pulled within the last week. Mashable said that it operated one of the top ten most popular accounts before it was deleted by Google.
Sensing an opportunity, Facebook recently created its own business-centric site to encourage companies to shy away from Google+, even after it launches its corporate account program later in the year.
The new site –dubbed Facebook Business – doesn't actually offer any new features. It simply organizes all the information that companies will need to brand themselves using Facebook. The website provides "how-to" information on creating pages and integrating ads, sponsored stories, plug-ins and custom apps.
Beecher Tuttle is a TMCnet contributor. He has extensive experience writing and editing for print publications and online news websites. He has specialized in a variety of industries, including health care technology, politics and education. To read more of his articles, please visit his columnist page.
Edited by Rich Steeves
