Google: Oh, you mean THOSE barges

Google's mystery barge in San Francisco Bay. (Credit: Josh Miller/CNET) Google has finally acknowledged that it is behind the mystery barge in San Francisco Bay, and that, as has been reported, it is likely to use the structure it's building there to showcase its technology.

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Google has finally acknowledged that it is behind the mystery barge in San Francisco Bay, and that, as has been reported, it is likely to use the structure it's building there to showcase its technology.

CNET was first to report the Google connection to the odd edifice, covered in scaffolding and dark netting, that sits on top of a barge in San Francisco Bay. A second such structure is located in Casco Bay off Portland, Maine, after having been constructed in New London, Conn.

Up close with Google's mystery barge (pictures)

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Initially, CNET speculated that the structure might be a floating data center, but subsequent reporting by KPIX in San Francisco suggested that it was some sort of technology showroom for Google X projects and products.

In a statement released Wednesday, Google said this: "Google Barge ... A floating data center? A wild party boat? A barge housing the last remaining dinosaur? Sadly, none of the above. Although it's still early days and things may change, we're exploring using the barge as an interactive space where people can learn about new technology."

Update (Wednesday, 12:25 p.m PT): This story now includes comment from Google.

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