Google updates Santa tracking algorithm, reopens North Pole privacy debate

Old Saint Nick may be full of mystery and magic most of the year, but as soon as December 24th rolls around, all eyes are on the jolly fat man, especially in this era of always-on social media. Sure, it's not the first to track Santa, but Google's been in on the sled following game since 2004. Naturally, the company has refined its approach a bit over the years, and for 2012, Google's offering up a new algorithm to track Mr. Kringle and his eight tiny reindeer's route. The site counting down to the start of the Google Earth tracking is now live and you can also get in on the fun via a new Chrome Extension. As to whether you've been naughty or nice, you'll just have to consult the traditional social media channels.