Google is testing an online social network for offline meetups
Shoelace helps gather people based on their interests.
Google can't resist the urge to create another social network even after the Google+ shutdown for everyday users. The company's experimental Area 120 unit has developed a social network, Shoelace, that helps people get together in real life. You pick your interests, and the creators help you hook up with like-minded people for various activities, whether they're custom-created or hand-picked. If you're new to town, for instance, you could find fellow runners or a local book club.
Importantly, you can share activities with others whether or not they have Shoelace. You won't necessarily have to create a Facebook event to rope people in, then.
Don't expect to try Shoelace for a while. It's invitation-only at present, and then only in New York City for now. Whether or not it goes public will likely depend on its early performance. If nothing else, it's a relatively fresh take for a Google-made social network -- it's trying to get you off your phone instead of keeping you hooked.
