[fourply]

I think this is a pretty significant step forward, and for me really highlights the changing relationship between Google and its users.

The transition from a passive search service requiring a user's input to an active provider fulfilling a variety of online needs is something that Google has clearly been working on from some time, and something they're good at. Still, the shift from "you might be interested in these shoes based on your search history" to "you might be interested in not having a computer infected with malware" seems pretty significant and bold to me. I really admire their vision and execution, but it still frightens me when I consider how much access I give Google to a large portion of my personal and professional life.

When Google becomes self-aware on August 29, 1997, I am really going to be screwed.