Google Black History Month: New Features & Updates

Google Amplifies black Voices with New Features for Black History Month

Google is launching a series of initiatives throughout February to celebrate Black History Month, spotlighting Black creators, developers, and businesses across its product ecosystem. The company’s efforts aim to elevate the contributions of the Black community and provide increased visibility for Black-owned enterprises and artistic endeavors.

A company release detailed the expansive rollout, beginning with a new Google Doodle featuring a music video set to an original track by Illa J. This Doodle uniquely celebrates the artistry of hip-hop beat making, emphasizing the innovative sound mixing and looping techniques pioneered by hip-hop producers.

did you know? – Hip-hop beat making, a cornerstone of modern music, originated in the Bronx, New York, during the 1970s. DJs began isolating instrumental breaks in songs to create a rhythmic foundation for MCs.

Expanding Access and Discovery on Google Platforms

the party extends beyond the Doodle, with dedicated hubs launching across several key Google platforms. Google Play will feature a curated collection of apps, games, and books created by Black developers and creators, alongside special events planned throughout the month.

On Google TV, users can explore collections designed to honor Black genius and strength, encompassing both ancient figures and the emerging genre of Afrofuturist sci-fi. The platform will also offer access to free live TV channels.

YouTube will actively engage with creators and artists within the Black community, amplifying their voices through their respective social channels. A senior official stated that these initiatives are designed to “foster a deeper connection with the community and showcase the unbelievable talent within it.”

Pro tip – To find Black-owned businesses near you, use google Search or Maps and include terms like “Black-owned” or “Black-owned near me” in your query.

Building on Ongoing Commitments

These new launches build upon Google’s existing commitment to supporting the Black community. The company highlighted ongoing projects such as the Chrome Black Artists Series, which features artwork by Black artists.Google is also relaunching its annual Black History Month background on Google Meet, providing a visual acknowledgment of the occasion during video conferences.

Furthermore,Google is enhancing its tools to make it easier to discover Black-owned businesses through Search and Maps.The company is also continuing its exploration of Black history and culture through Google Arts & Culture, offering in-depth stories and resources.

One analyst noted that these efforts demonstrate a growing recognition of the importance of portrayal and economic empowerment within the tech industry. Google’s multifaceted approach to celebrating Black History month underscores its commitment to fostering a more inclusive digital landscape.

Reader question – How can tech companies best ensure these initiatives translate into long-term, sustainable support for the Black community? Share your thoughts!

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Expanded News Report:

Why: Google launched these initiatives to celebrate Black history Month and demonstrate its commitment to supporting the black community, recognizing the importance of representation and economic empowerment within the tech industry. The company aims to elevate Black voices, creators, developers, and businesses.

Who: The initiatives involve Google, Black creators, developers, artists, business owners, and users of Google’s platforms (Google Play, Google TV, YouTube, Google Search, Google Maps, Google Arts & Culture, and Google Meet). Illa J, a hip-hop artist, is featured in the google doodle.

what: google is rolling out a series of features across its platforms, including a Google Doodle celebrating hip-hop beat making, curated collections on Google Play and Google TV, amplified content from Black creators on YouTube, enhanced search