Google makes their own Digg, lets users pop stories

Google's newest iGoogle gadget called "What's Popular?" is conceptually very similar to sites like Digg and Reddit. The gadget is very simple to use, and could be the beginnings of something interesting. To install the new gadget, browse to this site, and click "add it now".

I'm not convinced that it's going to replace similar websites -- after all, they did try (and pulled the plug on) something similar with "Shared Links". That said, leveraging iGoogle could be an easy way to get lots of momentum quickly, especially if it becomes a default gadget at some point.

The new service lets users "pop" stories that they find interesting. Armed with these votes and an algorithm, Google can decide what's popular and show promoted stories front and center.

The widget-sized view on iGoogle has 4 tabs.

1) All This tab shows the stories that Google thinks are the most popular -- the ones that have been promoted from the pool of additions based on their "pops" and their special algorithm.

2) My Pops These are the stories you have personally endorsed.

3) My Adds When you add URL's, they appear here.

If you put the widget into canvas mode, you can filter the stories based on date posted, popularity and relevance. You can also specify if you want to see stories, videos or images.

What do you think about this new feature. Let's hear what you think in the TalkBack!