Review: Orkut Feeds (What Google Should Have Included)

While there are several other RSS to Orkut hacks out there, this by far is probably the best ones that I have seen online.

Rahul, who previously came up with a GreaseMonkey version, created a site called Orkut Feeds which allows users to subscribe to not only scrapbooks and forums, but topics within individual threads of forums as well.

The last feature is very helpful as it will help Orkuteers keep up on those lovable debates about politics, religion or just which Sushi tastes the best).

In order to subscribe to a favorite forum, all a user has to do is visit one of their favorite forums on Orkut and then highlight the URL at the top of the screen and copy it (note: you can do this by pressing the Ctrl button and the letter A on your keyboard, then press the Ctrl button and the letter C).



Next, visit OrkutFeeds.com, and paste the URL into the field below (note: you can do this by pressing the Ctrl button and the letter V on your keyboard).



Then hit the subscribe button...



...and subscribe to the forum in your favorite feed reader (in my case Google Reader).

For those of you who simply would like to add the forum with as few as clicks as possible, you can simply install this GreaseMonkey Script (Firefox only) to have a little RSS button appear above every forum, scrapbook and discussion thread.

Note: Now the only way I feel that this hack could be better is if Rahul could somehow implement this within the Orkut Sandbox, as most Orkut users are still using internet explorer.

Help Rahul Note: Since Rahul is providing this feature free of charge, I would encourage everyone to help keep the site up by sending a donation towards his server bill (as Rahul is paying for this out of his own pocket).

I have already sent him a few bucks, and I encourage anyone using this hack to do the same (as Rahul does not have the backing of Google--at least not yet ;-)).

Update: Reposted article to reflect the correct time.

Hack: Orkut Formatting For Scrapbooks, Forums

Update (10/14): It looks as if this hack was originally developed by Sharath (explanation provided at the bottom). See his post for an updated version.

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Although there are plenty of hacks out there that make it easier to format text in ones scrapbook or forum (such as the Orkut Toolbar), this one by far seems to most useful.

Created by Siva Jawaji, the Orkut Formatting Toolbar provides easy to use formating buttons above not only the "general" scrapbook box...



...but in the reply boxes as well.



You can even use this hack while replying to various forums on Orkut.



Currently users have to either remember 30 different formating codes ranging from smilies to colors to the basic [b]bold[/b], [u]underline[/u] and [i]italic[/i] codes (either that or constantly refer back to the Orkut chart).

Siva's hack removes that hassle, making it easier for even non-geeks to concentrate more on what they say, than the appearance of the message on Orkut.

Hopefully Google includes a similar feature later on this month, when they open up Orkut with API's.

Note: This hack is for Firefox users (sorry IE fans). In order to use this hack, you will need to first install GreaseMonkey. After that, you can download Orkut Formatting Toolbar over here.

I will add this hack to the Orkut User Tools sidebar underneath the GreaseMonkey section.

Update (10/14): It seems as if their is a dispute on who is the original author of this hack.

Siva's hack (featured above) seems to be based upon a previous script by MarivaldO.

However Sharath is claiming that both scripts are based off his original hack, which he has improved upon by adding glitter effects (which looks really nice by the way).

I (hopefully) doubt anyone purposely took this hack for their own, as they could have simply forgotten to credit the original creator.

Since it looks as if Sharath may have been the original author of this hack (at least to me), I'll give him credit for the original hack.

Should Orkut Integrate This Google Talk Hack?

(Hat Tip: Ramesh Chowdary from Tech Orchard)

A long, long time ago Google decided to add Google Talk to Orkut in order to allow friends to easily chat with each in real time.

Unfortunately Google Talk was very limited, causing some people to either whine about it (okay, so I was the only one complaining) while others decided to do actually create a hack for the rest of us.

Now it seems that a new Google Talk hack has emerged, that not only improves upon the previous hack, but also is in the "perfect spot" on the Orkut page.

(Gauravv.com) Recently i felt need of an IM client just inside orkut so that i can be in touch with who are online ,although i knew ultimately orkut will add this feature someday ..but why wait for them to take initiative :) so i made this greasemonkey script which does same thing,it also has support for multiuser conference :).

The beauty of this hack is that users can "hide" the Gtalk (or Google Talk) feature by clicking on the Hide Gtalk link...



...if they feel like browsing through their list of friends.

If they feel like chatting with someone online all they have to do is click Show Gtalk link...



...and they can begin to chat, or even call them if they would like.

If any Googlers are reading this post, hopefully they will consider adding this feature, along with a host of others rumored to be coming out this November.

Note: This hack is currently for Firefox users only, although I will see if I can find one for Internet Explorer 7 (as I'm seeking some useful hacks come out for that browser).

You will need to install GreaseMonkey first, as well as Macromedia Flash Player.

After that, head over to UserScripts.org to install this hack. I will add this hack underneath Orkut User Tools in the GreaseMonkey section.

Another "Orkut To RSS" Hack

It looks as if Rahul from Devil's Workshop has come up with a "one click" RSS feed hack that will enable users to view community forums and scrapbooks through their favorite feed reader.

This hacks seems to be much easier to use than Orkut Feed (see review) although you will need Firefox and GreaseMonkey in order to make the most out of this hack.

(UserScripts.org) Insert Relevant RSS feeds on pages with ready to subscribe button

This GreaseMonkey Script for Orkut adds a link to RSS feed of current users scrapbook or community posts in top header menu of Orkut!

Also for advance firefox users, the RSS Link will be integrated into orkut so that you can get RSS indicator in navigation/address bar.

whenever you will click on above links you will be redirected to relevant RSS fee, which you can add to a RSS Reader like Google Reader.

For those of you looking for screen shots, Rahul provides the goodies over here. Users can install the script over here by clicking on this link:

http://userscripts.org/scripts/source/11069.user.js

Note: I will add this underneath Orkut User Tools underneath the GreaseMonkey section.

Hack: Making Orkut User Friendly (Via Stylish)

I think one of Orkut's greatest strengths is the fact that its simple appearance makes it easy for anyone to use, as well as navigate around the site.

Well, it seems a hack by JuanBR has improved upon Google's original design, creating a layout that gives the social network a more aesthetic taste (i.e. "it just looks better").

To see what I mean, here is a screen shot comparing Orkut before implementing this stylish hack:



And here is a screen shot after installing Stylish:



This hack requires Firefox, and for those of you who love visuals (I think I am going to have to create video's some day) here are step-by-step instructions on how to install this hack.

First, you are going to need to install Stylish for Firefox by visiting this link:
https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/2108 .

Next, click on the green "Install Now" button.



A pop up window should appear asking you if you really want to install the script (with a warning beside it).



Simply click on the Install Now button, which will load the add-on inside your Firefox. Note: I had no problems installing this script, but you should only install scripts from sites that you trust.

After its done, you will need to restart Firefox, (sad, but true) so simply close out your browser and come back here after the break. ;-)

Next, visit UserStyles.org (or rather http://userstyles.org/styles/3097) and click on the Load into Stylish button.



Another window should pop up (not highlighted here) asking you if you want to preview, save or cancel. Hit the save button, and then visit Orkut.com again.

I really love the layout of this hack, and I think it would be really cool if Google adopted this layout (or something similar) as it would definitely improves the over all look of the site. If anyone has any questions (or reviews) you can visit this site for details.

Note: Will add this hack underneath Orkut User Tools.

Hack: Mass Delete Tool For Friends (And Foes?)

(Hat tip: Dean aka The Dude of Orkut)

Update (7/9): Corrected original authorship of script hack.

Here is a useful tool originally developed by Rodrigo (and partially translated into English by Sharath) that gives users the option of removing testimonials, messages, topics and even friends en mass.

Here is a brief explanation over at Technowise.

(Technowise) Now deleting anything from orkut is a lot more easier with the Mass Delete Tool!
This tool is for mass deleting messages, topics, events, friends and testimonials. It will be very useful for all orkut users, especially the community owners and moderators. The orkut interface only provides multiple selection and deletion of scraps, and this tool provides options for everything else!

In order to use this hack, users will need to install Firefox as well as GreaseMonkey, and for the visually stimulated (that includes me) here are some quick screen shots on how useful this hack may be for some users.

1. After installing GreaseMonkey, search for the OMDT link.





2. Clicking on it will open a new mini window which allows you to adjust how fast you want the deleted friends, testimonials, etc. to take place.





3. Next, select Yes to turn on the script (other wise it will not work).





4. The options below simply ask if you want to be alerted on your homepage. Simply click yes on both items.





5. After you are done, click OK. A pop up should appear asking you to verify whether you want to turn this on or not. Simply hit Ok again to let the fun begin.





6. Next, select the friends that you want to remove. If you want to remove all of them, you can always hit the all link as shown below.





7. Next, hit the Delete Selected link to remove your various friends. Just in case you change your mind there is an Interruption link (not shown here) which you can always click on to halt the process.





8. Last but not least, a pop up window should appear, letting you know not only how many friends were deleted, but how long the process took.

This is a really helpful tool (at least for me) and probably is something Google should consider adding as a feature in the Friend Section. Users can download this GreaseMonkey hack over here, and this tool will definitely go underneath Orkut User Tools.

If anyone has any questions regarding this hack, please visit Sharath's post on TechnoWise Rodrigo Lacerda scrapbook as the community forum seems to have been deleted.

Update (7/9): Thanks to Mr. Nobody and Sharath for confirming Rodrigo as the original author. Props to both of you guys!

Hack: RSS For Your Orkut Communities

(Hat Tip: Orkut Plus)

This has probably got to be one of the best hacks that I've seen on Orkut in a long time! (and one that I have been requesting Google to create ever since logging onto Orkut).

Called Orkut Feed, this site allows any user to discover updates to discover updates to their favorite forums via site feed and add them to their favorite reader.

I am guessing the author is Brazilian as here is a brief explanation via Google Translator.

orkutFeed is a service that disponibiliza Feeds RSS for the communities of orkut. It is not necessary to make I register in cadastre! You only need to inform link of community, and to catch link of the Feed.

In order to add your favorite community, simply find the link of the forum in Orkut...



...and copy and paste the link into the space provided below (note: you have to love the "humongous font").



Next, click the "OK" button...



...which will bring you to a new screen. If your site feed is already listed via button form (which is to the right of the "big orange square" or the universal symbol for site feeds) then simply click on your preferred button (in this case I'm going to click on Google Reader) and subscribe.



Thus far, the site feed only shows title links, and not any of the content of the forum (as shown below).



This is probably a good thing (as it prevents other users from stealing one's content) although the anonymous coder may expand it later on to include full posts.

The great thing about this site is that both Firefox, IE and Opera users can enjoy the full benefits without having to switch over to a different browser.

Note: Will add this to the sidebar underneath Orkut User Tools.

Enlarge Thy Image?

Rahul, over at the Welcome to the Devil's Workshop has created a GreaseMonkey hack (Firefox required) that allows users to enlarge the images on their scrapbook.

Here is a before and after screen shot comparing the two:



For those of you who are already Firefox (and GreaseMonkey) fans, you can install this hack by clicking here.

Although a cosmetic hack, this does improve the overall appearance of my scrapbook (at least in my opinion).

Note: I am going to list this hack underneath Orkut User Tools on the sidebar.

Double Note: Congrats Rahul for reaching 100,000 plus hits!

Hack: Adding Google Talk Inside Orkut

Some of you may have remembered hearing the news about the search engine king integrating Google Talk within Orkut.

Unfortunately it was a bit limited, (at least to me) and I was wondering whether or not Google would consider adding a full blown version inside Orkut.

Well, it seems that a user who goes by the name of ErickXavier has used a GreaseMonkey hack (Firefox only) in order to turn this wish into a reality.

(Tech Buzz) Recently Google introduced a new Google Talk Gadget which could be embedded onto any blog or webpage. Making use of this gadget, ErickXavier has coded a Greasemonkey script which adds a nifty Google Talk gadget within Orkut Sidebar, which allows you to stay intouch with your buddies without installing Google Talk. [...]

Click here to install the script from our mirror (Alternatively, you can get it from Userscripts)

In my honest opinion Gtalk seems to have a nicer fit inside Orkut than within Gmail. Although it is nice to talk to your friends while checking messages, I often found myself bombarded with random requests (especially when reading important messages) resulting in the death of that handy chat feature.

While surfing Orkut however I do not mind these requests (and often preferred them above scraps) although until now the only way to access this feature was through Orkut Cute.

This hack will definitely be added to the sidebar underneath Orkut User Tools (in the GreaseMonkey section).

Exit Question: For those of you who have tested this out, do you think Google should add this feature within Orkut (along with file sharing and group chats) or instead avoid Gtalk like the black plague?

A Blogger Widget For Orkut?

No, it's not officially from Google, but it's probably something the Orkut team should consider in the future (that is if Google integrates Blogger, Picasa, etc. within Orkut).

Prashanth has developed a blogger widget that you can add to your blog*spot blog displaying your Orkut profile, scrapbook, teaser, etc., image links, which is similar to what I have on my site.

Since we all love visual explanations, here is a quick way to install this on your site.

Note: This will only work on the new blogger (if you are still using the old or FTP, I would highly recommend switching)

1) You'll need to visit the Tech Banaglore blog and click on the Add Orkut Profile to Your Blog! button.



2) A new page should open up allowing you to select which blog to highlight your Orkut profile on (choose wisely ;-))



3) You may want to consider adding a title to the widget (which will appear on your blog).



4) For non-geeks, this is where things get slightly technical. You are going to have to discover what your Orkut link is in your profile, then paste it into the space provided.



You can usually do this by either right clicking and copying the link location or simply click on your profile link and copy it in the browser bar above.

5) Last but not least, click on the ADD WIDGET button at the bottom.



6) Send Prashanth a quick scrap letting him know that you have added this to your blog sidebar. (optional but I am sure Prashanth will appreciate it).

Note: I will add this under the Orkut User Tools sidebar. Thanks Prashanth!

Update (4/19): Updated blog link to Prashanth's weblog.

Mass Scrap Your Friends?

(Hat Tip: Tech Buzz)

For those of you who have been emailing, scraping, Gtalking, commenting or Skyping me to death about this, there is a new program out there that allows user to send mass scraps to all of their friends on Orkut.

Created by Orkutrix and folks from the Orkut Underground community (the same one Google keeps trying to delete) this GreaseMonkey hack can be a powerful tool in the hands of both friend and foe (think spammer).

Some of my friends have already started to use this, although I give it a couple weeks until Google shuts it down completely as this tool can easily be abused.

You can visit Tech Buzz for instructions on how to download this hack, as well as how to use it.

Note: Perhaps it's a good thing I installed this previous hack. ;-)

Rahul Ressurects Orkut Toolbar For Firefox

Orkut Toolbar was one of the first Orkut hacks that I came across that made life easier "orkuting."

Unfortunately after I upgraded to Firefox 2, I lost the ability to use this tool, although its absence was short lived with hacks like Orkut Scrapper and Orkut Helper filling the void.

It seems however Rahul has taken the time and energy to ressurect this Firefox Add-on, which you can now install over here.

Thanks Rahul!

Spam Filter For Your Orkut Scrapbook

(Hat Tip: Sharath)

It looks like users have a new way to fight spam within their scrapbooks, a problem that is occurring all too often within Orkut. Called Tira Spam do Orkut (or It takes off Spam of the Orkut) this nifty program developed by Sergio Abreu will hopefully make all our lives easier online.

Unfortunately I do not have any screen shots of this program in action as Google has taken care of my spam problem (probably because I kept whining about it).

This hack requires GreaseMonkey and Firefox, and you can download the program by visiting this page (or simply click here if you have GreaseMonkey installed).

Note: Adding this to the sidebar underneath Orkut User Tools.

A Custom URL For Your Orkut Profile?

If finding your friend's profile on Orkut is difficult, then typing it in the address bar is far worse.

Fortunately it seems that Sankar Anand has figured out a quick way to have your friends type in your Orkut profile without having to memorize a 19 digit reference number.

Here are the first several (and then some) steps detailed on Sankar Anand Blog:

• Login to Google Page Creator with Your Google accounts username and password
• Either create a new site or choose the Create Another site from the drop down box available at the top right corner of the page
• The next step is about choosing an address which is going to be the URL of your Orkut profile, so enter the profile name you want for your url basically it should be like this http://yourdesiredname.googlepages.com which will re-direct you to the Orkut profile.
• Say for example you want to use “XXXX” as your profile url then you should enter xxxx in the box provided for choosing an address and click Check Availability to see if the entered name is available or not.
• Select any layout and a starting look because because it has nothing to do with your url.
• Making sure you have entered the desired URL and check if its available or not, then click the Create Site Button.
• Now you have successfully created a site, click the [no title] link in the page name column to make it open.
• There you go, you are ready to edit the page where Google pages allows you to add title and other bla bla things. But you don’t have to touch them just click the [edit html] link at bottom right corner of the page.
• Type the following javascript code in any part of the blank page.

If you want to get the java code script, I suggest visiting his site. ;-)

Update: I wonder if Orkut should consider making our profile name easier to find by using our names (with a short number) instead of a 19 digit random number?

Like instead of http://www.orkut.com/Profile.aspx?uid=xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx, how about http://www.orkut.com/Profile.aspx?uid=darnellclayton123 ? What do you guys think?

Update (1/18): Java script it is. Thanks Haochi!

A New Way To Fight Community Spam?

Whether its inside email, blogger comments, or Orkut scrapbooks, spam is really annoying. While their is currently no effective way to fight scrapbook spam, Sharath has developed a way for community owners to fight forum spam, which in the case for Orkut, can make or break a community.

Here are the details of how this hack works from his site (note: this requires Firefox and GreaseMonkey):

To use this script, simply go to your community, and click on "view all topics" button. It will start searching for spam messages and prompt you to delete if it finds any. For a shortcut, just enter: http://www.orkut.com/CommTopics.aspx?cmm=xxxx
Replace xxxx with your community ID.

Above you can see an example of confirmation message given to delete after detecting a spam message.

I tested this on the small forums that I owned, although no spam came up (probably because I deleted them recently before installing this hack). You can download this hack over here (GreaseMonkey and Firefox required) and if you have any questions, comments or words of praise you can reach Sharath on his blog.

I am going to recommend this to the Community Owners forum (as well as several others) and see what their opinion is of this tool (and how effective it is within their forums).

I wonder if something similar could be made for our scrapbooks?

Note: I am going to add this hack underneath Orkut User Tools underneath the sidebar.

Easy Scraper Relaunches With Shiny New Look

After previously