Microsoft could be developing a new social searching network called Tulalip, according to venturebeat.com. Although most information about the new Microsoft social network comes from rumors, there seems to be at least a grain of truth about the IT giant’s new project. A domain hosting the new network has been created but then soon after taken offline.
If the rumors prove to be true, Tulalip will be Microsoft’s answer to Facebook and the newly launched yet increasingly popular Google+. It will be interesting to see how Microsoft’s new social networking service will wrestle with giant Facebook and daring newcomer Google+.
What Is Tulalip
Microsoft said that its new social network will allow users to share any kind of content and news items rapidly. Also, it will allow them to look up information on Twitter and Facebook. Up to this point, it seems that the new Microsoft social network will have as the main feature a powerful search function that works across Facebook and Twitter. Microsoft also added that Tulalip is in its early stages of development, but didn’t say more.
Recently, the website socl.com hosted a banner announcing the new Microsoft social network. Soon after, however, the website vanished from the web. Microsoft said that the domain was only an internal application that one of its research teams used. Apparently, it was put online by accident.
Up to this point, it’s unclear whether Tulalip will openly compete with Facebook. Right now it seems unlikely that Tulalip’s features will overlap with the core features of Facebook or Google+.
The new Microsoft social network could look similar to Windows Phone 7. If the rumors prove true, it will likely integrate with the company’s mobile OS. Social media fans may then have yet another treat ahead of them.
Social Media – The Web’s Hottest Trend
It remains to be seen whether Tulalip will compete with the likes of Facebook or Google+. While Facebook continues to dominate social media, Google+ has already amassed a sizable following. Recent data shows that Google+ already got 10 million users since its launch three weeks ago.
Whether Tulalip will launch this year or not, one thing’s clear — there’s plenty of room online for one more social network.