If we are what we Google, then Google Hot Trends —an hourly rundown of search terms “that experience sudden surges in popularity”—is the Web’s best cultural barometer. Here’s a sampling of today’s top searches. (Rankings on Hot Trends list current as of 9 a.m.)
No. 1 “laura ling”: On Monday, the highest court in North Korea sentenced two Current TV journalists to 12 years hard labor . Laura Ling and Euna Lee were filming a segment about the trafficking of women along the Chinese-North Korean border when they allegedly crossed into the DPRK illegally. Lisa Ling, formerly a host on The View , is pleading for her sister’s release . The AP quotes a South Korean professor who says Monday’s sentencing has actually “paved the way for … a diplomatic solution” — by North Korean law “a pardon can only be issued after a conviction and … the regime’s courts were not about to find the reporters innocent.”
No. 7 “greg grossman”: If you love TV chefs but don’t trust anyone over 15, rejoice: The Hollywood Reporter says “professional teen chef” Greg Grossman has a realty-TV deal . Last month, the Chicago Tribune did a Q & A with the 14-year-old molecular gastronomist , detailing his jones for dehydrated anchovy salt and sake foam. “[P]lease don’t think it’s all flashy and stuff,” he said. “I see it as a way of enhancing the flavors of a dish. It’s more about decorating the room than building it.”
No. 10 “wwdc”: Googlers are eager for scoops on the Worldwide Developers Conference — aka the event at which Apple might reveal some amazing new iPhone. While most analysts and rumormongers believe that new software will be today’s focus, one of Google Trends’ top related searches is “iphone 4g.” Examiner.com runs through some of the features that might be included on such a next-gen device: 3.2 megapixel camera! More storage! FM radio!
