As part of its “philosophical shift” to improve its sluggish performance, online auction giant eBay plans to launch its own social networking service called “Neighborhoods”.

In eBay’s words, “Neighborhoods are places for people like you who want to connect via their shared passions for products and topics. You can jump right in, or just come by and watch – it’s up to you.” It brings together all the important features of eBay such as guides, reviews, eBay blogs, photos, and comments between sellers and buyers.

This centralized approach will make it easier for buyers to find products related to their interests. Currently, there are about 600 neighborhoods in eBay including coffee lovers, Apple iPhones, jewelries, Star Wars, and foodies.

Apparently, it is very easy to get lost in this site given its more than 560 million products in the inventory. Neighborhoods is a new customer-friendly service geared towards bringing back its folksy appeal and building a sense of community.

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