Google closes Google Labs

INTERNET GIANT Google is closing Google Labs, the go-to destination for all that is hot and fresh from its developer kitchen.

The firm has already announced an intention to streamline its efforts, and after a couple of false starts such as Google Buzz, it might be looking to narrow its focus, or something.

"Last week we explained that we're prioritizing our product efforts. As part of that process, we've decided to wind down Google Labs," wrote Bill Coughran, SVP for Research and Systems Infrastructure.

"While we've learned a huge amount by launching very early prototypes in Labs, we believe that greater focus is crucial if we're to make the most of the extraordinary opportunities ahead."

Google possibly does have some "extraordinary opportunities" ahead, including increased use of its social network Google+.

Google+ is thought to be approaching 20 million users after having been around for only three weeks.

"We'll continue to push speed and innovation-the driving forces behind Google Labs-across all our products, as the early launch of the Google+ field trial last month showed", added Coughran. µ