Experiments with Google: A Decade and Beyond of Innovation
For 14 years, "Experiments with Google" has been a vibrant hub for technological exploration, showcasing over 1600 unique and inspiring projects. Born from a simple idea, it transformed into a global platform, inspiring innovation in classrooms, research labs, and beyond. Now, Google is embarking on a new chapter, transitioning the core activity to labs.google while maintaining the original site as a valuable archive. This article explores the legacy of "Experiments with Google" and anticipates what's to come with Labs.Google.
A Look Back: Trailblazing Experiments
"Experiments with Google" has been a playground for coders and innovators, pushing the boundaries of Chrome, Android, AI, AR, and more. Some notable experiments throughout the years include:
- 2010: The Wilderness Downtown: An interactive film experience using Google Maps.
- 2011: WebGL Globe: A visualization tool for global data using WebGL.
- 2012: JAM with Chrome: A collaborative music experience within the browser.
- 2016: Chrome Music Lab: A collection of web-based experiments that make learning music more accessible and fun.
- 2017: Quick, Draw!: An AI experiment challenging users to draw objects and have them recognized by a neural network.
- 2019: Teachable Machine: A platform that enables users to create machine learning models without coding. It's a fast and easy way.
These are just a few examples of the diverse range of projects that have emerged from this platform.
Featured Collections
Experiments with Google organized projects into collections based on themes, making it easier for users to discover relevant content. Some prominent collections include:
- AI Experiments: Showcasing projects that creatively utilize artificial intelligence.
- WebXR Experiments: Exploring augmented and virtual reality experiences within the web browser.
- Arts & Culture Experiments: Highlighting the intersection of technology and artistic expression.
- Experiments for Learning: Gathering experiments designed to support educational initiatives at home and in the classroom.
These collections serve as curated pathways, guiding users to explore specific areas of interest and discover groundbreaking projects within those domains. You can view all collections here.
Recent Experiments: Exploring New Frontiers
"Experiments with Google" continuously showcased new projects pushing the boundaries of technology. Here are some recent examples:
- Passage of Water: A collaboration with artist Yiyun Kang and NASA to visualize freshwater availability.
- Instrument Playground: A Google Arts & Culture lab project letting you generate, play and compose music with the help of Google AI.
- Cultural Icons: Use Google AI to explore cultural knowledge.
- Say What You See: Learn the art of image prompting with the help of Google AI.
These recent additions demonstrate the ongoing commitment to innovation within the "Experiments with Google" ecosystem. You can view all experiments here.
The Future: Labs.Google Beckons
While "Experiments with Google" will remain an important historical archive, the focus is shifting to labs.google. This new platform promises fresh tools and opportunities for exploration, as well as even more cutting-edge projects. This transition signifies Google's dedication to fostering experimentation and pushing the envelope of technological innovation. Make sure to check it out and see what they have to offer.
Continuing the Legacy
The legacy of "Experiments with Google" lies in its ability to inspire creativity, foster collaboration, and democratize access to cutting-edge technology. As the torch passes to labs.google, the spirit of experimentation will undoubtedly continue to thrive, shaping the future of technology for years to come.
