Today, MySpace launches a redesign of the site aimed at attracting younger users and differentiating themselves from Facebook. Once the king of social networking, MySpace has had a tough time since Facebook blew up. Now, it\u2019s mostly synonymous with artists and glitter graphics. Some have even called it the ghetto of social networks. MySpace isn\u2019t down and out yet, though.<\/p>\n
This update will be the latest in a series of changes MySpace has made to change direction and make the service more attractive. According to MySpace President, Mike Jones, \u201cThis is a full rethink.\u201d They plan to go after 13 to 35-year-olds looks for a social network centered around entertainment. Somewhere separate to hang out away from your standard friends and family network. \u201cThis is an entirely different product\u201d<\/p>\n
Rather than connecting with others based on real-life connections, MySpace wants users to connect based on common interests. This is possible to do on other networks like Facebook, but not necessarily practical. This single change in direction could take away the competitive dynamic of the Facebook-MySpace relationship and make it easier for users to justify using both. If MySpace doesn\u2019t have to compete directly with Facebook, it\u2019s more likely they can turn things around.<\/p>\n