'Do a barrel roll' spins out of control on Twitter as millions take a turn

By Daily Mail Reporter

Last updated at 1:57 AM on 4th November 2011

Even if it was only for a moment, Google had millions spinning into frenzies with a new search function.

Desk jockeys were amazed today as typing the phrase ‘do a barrel roll’ as a Google search prompted computer screens to do a 360-degree turn.

The captivating function works in Google Chrome and Firefox browsers, but not in Internet Explorer.

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Take a spin: The captivating ‘do a barrel roll’ function works in Google Chrome and Firefox browsers, but not in Internet Explorer

iPhone users can also do a barrel roll on their devices, but Android and Blackberry holders are out of luck.

The search engine giant told ABC News: ‘Today’s fun query, “do a barrel roll,” was created by a Google software engineer with the primary goal of entertaining users – while showcasing the power of CSS3, a presentation feature of modern browsers.

‘The “do a barrel roll” query, which causes the search page to spin, will remain in place for a while.’

The phrase quickly became a trending topic on Twitter as users urged their followers to try it for themselves.

Homage: The feature can also be toggled if one searches the phrase ‘Z or R twice,’ Google’s ode to the Nintendo 64 video game Star Fox

The feature can also be used if one searches the phrase 'Z or R twice,' Google's homage to the Nintendo 64 video game Star Fox.

The barrel roll manoeuvre in the popular 1990s game could be completed by toggling the Z or R buttons twice.

Google is no stranger to quirky themes on its homepage.�

On Monday, the tech powerhouse utilized six enormous pumpkins to spell out its name in celebration of Halloween.

Spooky: On Monday, the tech powerhouse utilized six enormous pumpkins to spell out its name in celebration of Halloween

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