I just heard about WolframAlpha from Steve Graham of the U of Chicago Computation Institute, a smart software guy not easily impressed.  Essentially, he said “you’d better see this.”  So I checked it out.  Here’s my first impression.

WolframAlpha presents a Google-like text entry field, wherein one enters subject matter or a formula.  The application provides “computational” information in response.  Cursory reading of its About section reveals the intent to provide not only look-up data, but computed knowledge, things that can be mathematically or algorithmically derived from the associated data.

Our goal is to build on the achievements of science and other systematizations of knowledge to provide a single source that can be relied on by everyone for definitive answers to factual queries.

They have a flash video that shows off compelling capabilities.

Some of what it can do is a bit like the lesser-known functions of Google in returning the results of mathematical equations or giving quantitative equivalencies (e.g., try typing “90 hectares in square miles”).  Give it more latitude, and it will surprise with concise presentations of relevant data.  Example when entering “next total solar eclipse Seattle.”

But after fiddling with it for 30 minutes, I found that my particular areas of interest correlated with an echoing lack of anything.  I tried solar vs. wind, Acer PC netbook share, top brands, Ford Motor Company share, and many more.  Nada.  Since…

Wolfram|Alpha aims to bring expert-level knowledge and capabilities to the broadest possible range of people—spanning all professions and education levels.

…they have a lot of work to do.  Although for mathematicians and geneticists, I’m prepared to believe it rules.  Given the academic pedigree of those involved, I thought “OK, let’s try a more college oriented computational knowledge challenge.”  For the health conscious college kid looking at calorie tradeoffs, bingo!…

Translation:  one case of Bud has the same calorie count as 17 strawberry (frosted) Pop-Tarts.

They do call it “Alpha,” and they do say there is much work to be done, so I’ll reserve judgement.  But I at least tried testing the obvious question:  is WolframAlpha a threat to Google as a mainstream tool?  I used the #2 Google search term from 2008 on both apps, and got the following results.

Verdict:  Google is safe for now.  Wolfram needs to be careful not to reach a broad audience until he’s got broad topics covered.  Initial frustration will substantially delay retrial among the masses.  But, if you are a higher echelon scientist or technophile, you will probably geek out over this.