Google has analyzed the billions of searches they received this year and came up with the 2007 zeitgeist - spirit of the times. They identify the subjects that have risen to the top of searches during 2007, and those that have fallen. The fastest rising in the U.S. were:
1. iphone
2. webkinz
3. tmz
4. transformers
5. youtube
6. club penguin
7. myspace
8. heroes
9. facebook
10. anna nicole smith
Google Search Analysis Discloses Trends
Zeitgeit 2007
Trend Themes
1. Personalized Toys - The rise of Webkinz and Club Penguin suggests a trend towards personalized virtual toys for children.
2. Social Media Dominance - The popularity of Facebook and MySpace indicates the trend of social media platforms dominating online interactions.
3. Emerging Celebrity Culture - The frequent searches for TMZ and the late Anna Nicole Smith reflect the growing interest in celebrity culture and gossip.
Industry Implications
1. E-commerce - The success of online platforms like Webkinz and Club Penguin presents opportunities for e-commerce businesses to tap into the personalized virtual toy market.
2. Social Networking - The rise of Facebook and MySpace highlights the need for innovative social networking platforms that cater to changing user preferences.
3. Media and Entertainment - The demand for celebrity content and news generated by TMZ and celebrity figures like Anna Nicole Smith opens up disruptive innovation opportunities in the media and entertainment industry.