Microblog facts for kids

A microblog is like a mini-blog where people share short messages. These messages can be text, pictures, videos, or sounds. You can share them on a website for a few friends or for everyone to see.

Someone who uses a microblog is called a "microblogger." They can send their messages from different places. This includes cell phones using text messages, email, instant messages, or directly through a website.

Microblogs are different from regular blogs. They have much shorter posts. A microblog post might be just one sentence, a link to an image, or a short video. People use microblogs to share many ideas. They might post about what they are doing, their favorite sports, or even important news.

What are Microblogging Services?

Microblogs are used in many ways on different websites. They became very popular with sites like Twitter. On Twitter, people send short messages to each other. These messages can be text comments or links to other media. Newer websites also let you share videos, pictures, or sounds directly. You don't just send a link.

Many social networking sites use a type of microblogging. Sites like Facebook or MySpace have "status updates." Here, a person tells their friends what they are thinking or doing right now.

How are Microblogs Used?

Microblogs have become a new way to get news quickly. They can share information about events that just happened or are still happening. For example, microblogs shared updates during the attacks in Mumbai in November 2008.

Microblogging for Work

A new idea for microblogging is to use it for work. It helps people talk to their coworkers. You can share quick news or information with people you work with. This can be faster than sending many emails. It also helps avoid a lot of unwanted messages. Companies like Yammer were started to help workers talk and share what they need for their jobs.

See also

In Spanish: Microblogueo para niños