As protests in Egypt continue, Google has launched a new service, called Speak-to-Tweet, that will allow people in Egypt to dial a phone number, and leave a voicemail, which is then transformed into text and posted onto Twitter. The new service will use voice recognition software to share communication, despite the recent ban on internet and text messaging. Speak-to-Tweet will also enable people within the region to call in and listen to messages left by others.

As social media evolves, new uses are endless. In terms of crisis-situations, it seems that these social sites become tools that enable people to help each other. Twitter isn’t just about shouting out your favorite pizza place during your lunch hour; it’s about being able to donate money instantly to people in the Gulf that were affected by the oil spill, or raising awareness of progress in Haiti. Even on a much smaller scale, these sites allow us to connect locally and help elderly neighbors shovel out of a big storm. Whatever the need, social media offers a way for people to come together.

What do you think this Speak-to-Tweet will do for the people of Egypt? For the rest of the world? Please share your thoughts!

-Sophie Gardner, 451 Marketing