Microsoft just launched it’s own social networking service, Wallop. As usual, Microsoft is joining the game late, adding a few innovations, and hoping to take the industry by storm.

New Features, But at What Cost?

Wallop features a few new technologies designed to improve the social network experience. Adding friends to your list is more strictly managed to reduce the incidence of stalking, etc. Most of the system is based on Flash, making it cross-browser compatible, dynamic, and slick looking. Microsoft is also establishing and supporting a Wallop Developer/Modder Community. Modders can create and then sell different Wallop Widgets to other Wallopers.

By making their system Flash and regulating what gets uploaded, Microsoft has increased quality but really clamped down on add-on volume and creativity. For example, I build web sites for a living, but I don’t know any Flash. I’ve just been pushed out of customizing my site beyond the presets and provided functions, and that may be too limiting for my tastes.

We’ll see if Microsoft got this venture into social networking and the balance between control and creativity right.

Invitation Only

Wallop is by invitation only. Since Wallop was released today, I don’t know of anyone who is a member yet. I have submitted a request to become a Walloper, so hopefully I can get in and go check it out soon. I will let you know if it’s cool.