Google announced two new features today that make the +1 button more useful. Appearing on more than a million websites, Google’s +1 button makes it easier to recommend content across the web and it’s finally gaining some momentum.

Google is making it easier to share recommended content with your friends. You can now share webpages with your circles directly from the +1 button. By clicking +1 on a page the new “Share on Google+” box will pop up and you’ll be able to add a comment, choose appropriate circles, and share.

When you share a link from the +1 button you’ll notice that a link, image and description have already been pre-populated. These are called +snippets. Starting today publishers will be able to customize what is shared by Google+ users when those users click +1. More details can be found on the Google Webmaster Blog.

If you haven’t already added the +1 button to your website, this update is a great incentive as it provides your visitors with another way to share your content. The update also levels the playing field as Google tries to compete with Facebook’s Like button. Both features are expected to roll out over the next week or so. If you can’t wait, you can join Google Plus Platform Preview for sneak peeks.

[Via: Search Engine Land, Image credit: Bruce Clay, Inc]