Google is an internet search engine that was created in 1998 by Larry Page and Sergey Brin, two computer science nerds who met at Stanford University. The name Google is actually a misspelling of the word “googol,” which is a mathematical term for the number 1 followed by 100 zeros. As it turns out, the founders couldn’t spell their own company’s name correctly, but who’s really counting?
Google has become so popular that it has become a verb, as in “I googled it.” If you haven’t used Google to find something, do it now. Seriously, go ahead. I’ll wait.
With its colorful logo featuring different doodles, Google is known for its sense of humor. In fact, in 2014 the search engine played an April Fools’ Day prank by announcing that it was changing its name to “Topeka,” in honor of the Kansas city that had temporarily changed its name to Google in an effort to be selected for a new high-speed internet service. Nice one, Google.
But Google isn’t just about having a good time. It’s also a valuable tool for finding information on anything from recipes to directions to that weird rash on your arm (hint: you might want to consult a doctor instead).
In addition to its search engine, Google has also created other products such as Google Maps, Google Drive, and Google Glass. However, not all of Google’s products have been successful. Does anyone remember Google Buzz? No? Exactly.
Despite its flaws, Google has become a crucial part of our digital lives. Who needs brains when we have Google, right? Well, maybe not the best attitude to have, but hey, no judgment here. So go forth and Google away! Just make sure you spell the name right.