The New Blogger Gets A "One Thumb Up" Rating

Blogger is officially out of beta this week, but the new version is only kinda sorta better, but not really bug-free. While I had no problem migrating my existing Blogger account to this new Blogger version, other users have reported some bugs. The only "bug" I notice thus far is that some people who have left a comment in the past on my blog are now appearing to be "anonymous" when they originally logged in with their account. Their username and profile pic are not showing up. An annoying glitch, but hopefully one that will be fixed shortly. I'm pretty sure it's nothing on my end. It's more than likely tied to a bug in the new Blogger version.

The upgrade includes integration with Google accounts, allowing users with existing accounts to log into the service. Also onboard is a new Layout feature, which utilizes Web 2.0 functionality for code-free updates to blog layouts. The new Labels tool allows users to tag and sort posts by keywords. Blogger has also added more template options to help people get started with their blog design. Dynamic Publishing allows users to see changes to their blog almost immediately after they're made, without the lengthy publishing process that marked previous versions. Private blog restrictions have also been added, allowing users to specify who can see their posts by entering the e-mail addresses of potential readers. New feed options are on board as well and the service now supports RSS 2.0 and Atom 1.0 standards.

If all of that tech jargon sounds like Charlie Brown's teacher talking to you (mmm waaa wa wa mmwa), then let me simplify - the upgrade is worth it. Especially for those that want to customize their blog, but aren't the most computer savvy person. If I had to rate this new Blogger version, I would give it one thumb up. Not worthy of two thumbs, but then it isn't all that shabby either.