Google software engineer Chikai Ohazama recently noted the launch of Google X. It’s an alternate look and feel for Google’s search engine technology that pays homage to Mac OS X’s Dock application — in place of the usual text descriptors “Web,” “Images,” Groups,” “News” and so on are colorful icons that appear to magnify as your mouse passed over them. At the bottom of the search Window, it says “Roses are red. Violets are blue. OS X Rocks. Homage to you.”
Google X is being made available through Google Labs, the popular Web site search company’s self-described “technology playground” that showcases “favorite ideas that aren’t quite ready for prime time.” Ohazama said that Marissa Mayer, Google’s Director of Consumer Products, liked Google X enough to make it publicly available. “So after some spit and polish from some enthusiastic Googlers and the keen eye of the UI team, Google X is here. I hope all of you enjoy it – especially Mac users, who I’m sure will appreciate its lineage,” said Ohazama.
Update: Since this story was posted earlier today, Google has taken the page offline. There was no explanation from Google why the page was removed or if it would return.
A Google spokesperson contacted by MacCentral refused to elaborate on the company’s reason for taking the Google X page offline.
Updated 2:45PM 03/18/05: Google spokesperson’s lack of comment noted.