Google Trusted Testers: From Betas to Campaigns

Google has a site for "trusted testers", but you need to be invited by a Google employee to test new Google services and new features before they're publicly available. "The Trusted Tester Program gives trusted Google users, friends and family members of Google employees a chance to test and share feedback on Google products or features that have yet to be released," explains Google.

It's interesting to compare the answers from a FAQ leaked in 2006 with the answers from a similar FAQ, which is available in the source code of the Trusted Tester site. For example, Google replaced "betas" with "campaigns".

2006: "You can then log on to the Trusted Tester website with a Google Account in order to access and test out betas of new Google products as they become available."

2013: "After joining, testers may be invited to Trusted Tester campaigns as they become available."

Who can participate?

2006: "the friends and family members of Google employees"

2013: "trusted Google users, friends and family members of Google employees"

When will you know if there is a new Google campaign to test?

2006: "Whenever a new Google beta is ready for testing, you'll receive an email letting you know. Then you can just log on to the Trusted Tester website with your Google Account and you'll see a link to that beta."

2013: "Whenever a new Google campaign that matches your profile is ready for testing, and you have been selected as a tester, you'll receive an email inviting you to participate. To increase your chances of being added to new campaigns, make sure your profile is complete and up-to-date!"

Google now uses profiles to determine the best trusted testers. Google even suggests to "make sure your profile is up to date so we can match you with tests for new Google products and services". There's more: "We select testers based on various demographics. The more information you provide in your profile, the better we can match you with appropriate products and services. Adding your mobile devices makes you eligible to participate in mobile tests, as well!"

How long is each Google campaign available for testing?

2006: "Google betas are usually only available for testing for around two weeks. After the testing period ends, we'll remove the link to the beta on the Trusted Tester website."

2013: "The length of the testing period will vary depending on the campaign."

{ Thanks, Florian. }