Definición:
Google LLC is a subsidiary of the Alphabet Inc. conglomerate, globally recognized as the owner of the most influential and widely used search engine on the Internet. Beyond its famous search engine, Google has developed an extensive ecosystem of tools and services including Gmail, Google Maps, Google Play Store, Google Drive, among others, that have transformed the way we interact with technology.
The name “Google” comes from the mathematical term“googol“, which represents the number 1 followed by 100 zeros. This name symbolizes the original mission of its founders: to organize the vast amount of global information to make it accessible and useful for everyone.
History of Google
Google’s history dates back to 1995, at Stanford University, where two computer science doctoral students, Larry Page and Sergey Brin, began developing an innovative system called BackRub. This system aimed to organize search engine results in a more efficient and relevant way. Over time, BackRub evolved into what we know today as Google. In August 1996, they launched the first version of Google, a project so ambitious that it consumed almost half of the university’s network bandwidth. In 1997, they registered the domain google.com, marking the beginning of a meteoric rise that would eventually overtake established search engines like Altavista and Yahoo. Google’s evolution:
- 2000: Google AdWords, an advertising program that would revolutionize online monetization, is launched.
- 2004: Google goes public, becoming one of the most anticipated initial public offerings.
- 2005: Google Maps is launched, expanding Google’s reach beyond textual searches.
- 2006: Google acquires YouTube, consolidating its presence in the online video market.
- 2008: The Google Chrome browser is launched and quickly gains popularity.
- 2015: Alphabet Inc. is created, a parent company encompassing Google and other subsidiaries.
- 2019: Google reaches the 90%+ mark in global search market share.
- 2023: Google continues to innovate in artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies, expanding its influence in various industries.
Google Services
Over the past few decades, Google has established itself as a leading digital service provider, offering a wide range of applications and platforms that have transformed the way we interact with technology. Below are some of the most prominent services Google currently offers:
- Google Chrome: This is Google’s web browser, known for its speed, security and simplicity. Although it is closed source software, it is free and available on almost all operating systems, being one of the most popular browsers in the world.
- YouTube: Acquired by Google in 2006, YouTube is the leading online video platform, allowing users to upload, view and share audiovisual content on a massive scale.
- Gmail: This email service is known for its intuitive interface and integration with other Google services. It offers support for POP3 and IMAP, and is famous for its large storage capacity and advanced organization features.
- Android: A Linux-based mobile operating system, acquired by Google in 2005. Android is now the most widely used operating system on mobile devices worldwide, thanks to its flexibility and wide range of applications.
- Google Drive: Launched in 2012, this cloud storage service allows users to save, share and access files from anywhere, facilitating real-time collaboration.
- Google Docs: Part of Google Workspace, this service allows you to create and edit documents, spreadsheets and presentations online, offering an efficient alternative to traditional office packages.
- Google Search Console and Google Analytics: Essential tools for digital marketers, these platforms allow you to measure the performance of a website, analyze traffic and optimize your online presence.
- Google Ads: Introduced in 2000, this service provides businesses with the ability to create online advertising campaigns, appearing in search results and maximizing their reach through sponsored advertising.
- Google My Business: Since 2014, this free tool, a staple in Local SEO, helps businesses manage their online presence, allowing them to update information such as opening hours, location and contact details.
- Google Earth: A geographic information system that provides a detailed view of the planet through satellite images, allowing users to explore and view interactive maps.
- Pixel (Smartphones): The Pixel phones, launched by Google in 2016, are known for their hardware and software integration, standing out for their photographic capabilities and direct Android updates.
- Google Books: Launched in 2004, this project seeks to digitize books and documents, offering users access to millions of titles through the Internet.
- Google Discover: A feature that provides personalized content based on users’ interests and search habits, using artificial intelligence to improve the relevance of information.
- Google Maps: This essential tool allows users to find locations, calculate routes and explore areas with Google Street View, making it easy to navigate and discover new places.
- Google Shopping: A virtual storefront where sellers can advertise their products, providing detailed information on prices, promotions and availability.