Google buried 1,605 weird and wonderful experiments — here's 5 you need to see
Google archived 14 years of innovation in one vault. Here are 5 of the best learning experiments you can still try today.
For 14 years, Google showcased a multitude of creative experiments on its Experiments with Google hub, captivating curious minds. The site's closure left many disappointed, though Google has preserved the original projects in an accessible archive. Among the 1,605 experiments, five standouts are worth revisiting.
One such experiment is Song Maker, part of Chrome Music Lab. This tool enables users to compose music by clicking on a grid, selecting from various instruments like piano, strings, synth, and woodwind. Users can add percussion beats, adjust tempo, and even incorporate their voice for a unique musical experience. With a range of options and the ability to connect electronic keyboards, Song Maker offers ample creative possibilities.
Another intriguing experiment is Radio Garden, an evolution of a Google Chrome Experiment. This digital globe features numerous radio stations from around the world, allowing users to explore and listen to a diverse range of music and content. UK listeners should be aware of legal restrictions that limit access to local streams only.
Quick, Draw combines the nostalgia of Pictionary with modern AI technology. In this game, players draw suggested objects within a 20-second timeframe, with a neural network attempting to guess the drawing in progress. Over 15 million players have contributed drawings, contributing to the development of machine learning. The game's objective is to help the AI succeed by producing a drawing resembling the real-life object.
Cultural Crossword, part of Google's Arts & Culture collection, offers a delightful combination of crossword puzzles and learning. Players can solve clues while exploring Google's diverse collections on subjects ranging from science and technology to big cats. By clicking the grid, users can see clues or tap Clues to view a list of hints. Additional information can be found on the Google Arts & Culture website, providing a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
Lastly, Fabricius introduces users to the world of Egyptian hieroglyphs. Named after Georg Fabricius, the "father of epigraphy," this experiment invites players to learn the fundamentals of hieroglyphs, trace examples, and create loose translations using suggested symbols. Although an offline error may occur during the initial introduction, the interactive game portion functions smoothly.
For those who wish to explore further, a link directs players to a Google Arts & Culture page featuring an interactive game and a showcase of historical artifacts.
Written by urgent.news from Tom's Guide's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
