Last week, Baiduannouncedits plan to completely redesign its Twitter-like microblogging platform, Baidu Talk, in an effort to jump back to the social networking scene.
TechNodereports that today, Baidu released the new version of its microblogging service, also known asShuoba. One of the biggest changes is that it eliminated the need for real-name authentication, which definitely makes user registrations a lot easier. It is said that users would still need a mobile number to verify registrations via via SMS.
Earlier reports suggested that the revamp would bring new additions to the content, functionality and user interface of Baidu Talk and true enough, the new platform looks nothing like Twitter anymore. Instead, it adopted a timeline format similar toPlurk, the microblogging underdog that used to be Twitter’s rival.
Microblogging is so huge in China that it is considered as one of the majordriving forcesfor 3G adaptation in the country. We have yet to confirm the unique features of this newly revamped microblogging platform but by the looks of it, it’s definitely a fresh start for Baidu, the company that, like Google, is good at search, but continues to struggle with social networking.
Story byFrancis Tan
Francis Tan is the Asia editor of TNW, who is based in the Philippines. He is particularly interested in Asian Internet startups, social me(show all)Francis Tanis the Asia editor of TNW, who is based in the Philippines. He is particularly interested in Asian Internet startups, social media and e-commerce. Get in touch with him via Twitter@francistanor Emailfrancis@thenextweb.com.
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