Google is best known for its search engine. Online search and ads have been and still prevail as the main business for Google. But not many people realise that the biggest name in the internet industry has ventured into areas that have little or probably nothing to do with its core business.
1) Driverless Cars
Since 2010, Google has been manufacturing driverless cars and at present, it owns 10 self-driven robotic cars. These cars are made of equipments worth$150,000 including$70,000 laser radar system.
2) Robotics
In 2012, Google became one of the world's leading makers of robots and robotic parts with Boston Dynamics, the latest acquisition in this field. Boston Dynamics is the creator of animal-like and human-like machines that works as a contractor for US military organization, Darpa.
3) Nest Labs
With the$3.2 bn acquisition of Nest, Google has made its foray into the Internet of things, a term used for all entities connected to the internet. Nest Labs is a manufacturer of self-learning and self-programmable sensor-driven thermostats and smoke detectors connected to wifi.
4) Motorola
Motorola has been the biggest attainment at$12.5 billion of Google. However, Motorola has not proven profitable for the internet giant. Motorola's recent launches Moto X and Moto G rendered quality Android experience. Project Ara of Motorola aims at customer satisfaction wherein the user can customize and replace the components of the handset.
5) Calico
Google has ventured into healthcare with the formation of Calico, an independent biotech company. The main aim is to tackle the aging and illness related problems. Google CEO Larry Page says, “ There's tremendous potential for technology more generally to improve people's lives. While this is clearly a long-term bet, we believe we can make good progress within reasonable timescales with the right goals and the right people.”
6) Google Glass
Google Glass is a wearable computer and the company's first gadget that is to be worn on eye. It has a number of applications. It can record and even stream live videos, capture photos, controlled using'voice actions' and many more.
7) Android
Google acquired Android in 2005. HTC Dream was the first smartphone on Android launched in 2008. Today, Android has almost 90% stake in the global share market.
8) Nexus Smartphones and Tablets
Google Nexus is a series of smartphones that run on Android operating system. Nexus devices are the first Android devices to receive updates to the operating system.
9) Chromecast
Launched in July 2013 by Google, Chromecast is an affordable digital media player USB stick priced at$35. When plugged into the HDTV, the chromecast works as an interface between your smartphone, tablet or PC and your television - select the content u want to play and that is streamed to your HDTV.
10) Google Ventures
Google Ventures is the venture capital asset that makes investments in technological companies. It has invested in Uber(cab sharing), Recorded Future( web trends), Miso(social television) etc.
