Google+ gets a cosmetic makeover

Menlo Park, Calif.—Google Inc. has rolled out a redesign of its Google+ social networking site that it said makes for a “simpler, more beautiful” experience.

According to Google, new features include a navigation “ribbon” on the left side with various interactive features; a stream of conversation “cards” that allow users to scan and join discussions; an “activity drawer” that highlights the community around a user's content; and a more visible Hangouts video conferencing page.

This month, Google announced first-quarter income of $2.89 billion—up 60.6% over the $1.80 billion logged in the same quarter a year ago—on revenue of $10.65 billion, 24% higher than last year. However, Google's average cost-per-click declined 12% in the quarter due to the increased use of mobile devices, on which CPCs are generally lower.