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Google users under the microscope

International travellers will become Google's guinea pigs for the next three weeks, with the launch of a new internet laboratory at London's Heathrow airport.

The Google Space lab will house a number of internet "pods", offering free web access to those travelling through the airport until December 17.

The company is using its success in search engine technology to extend its tentacles into a host of new ventures. Google Space will be manned by staff from the company who will offer advice to users and glean feedback on the services, much like a focus group study.

The company said a survey of 1826 British passengers showed that 71 per cent would like to use the time spent waiting for flights to find out more about their destinations.

Topping the list of topics of interest from respondents were a map of their destination, weather forecasts and tourist information. A quarter said they would also like to send email.

Google has not ruled out becoming a recognised physical presence in airports, stations and even high streets around the world, it said in an interview with the BBC in Britain.

Resource: TheAge

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