Perhaps lost in the hubbub of today’s iPad announcements, Google today updated its search app for Windows Phone 7.5 (Mango). The app, available from the Windows Marketplace, is completely redesigned, according to Google’s Inside Search blog. Included in the new app are autocomplete, voice search, and location features:
- Google Autocomplete: As you type in your search, our autocomplete feature offers search predictions that often match your intended search term making search entry easier and faster.
- Voice Search: With our voice feature, you can avoid typing all together. Simply press the microphone and begin speaking your query.
- My Location: With your permission, Google can use your device location to provide nearby results easily and accurately. For instance, a search for “coffee shops” quickly displays the nearest places you can go to for a cup of coffee.
We’re not sure why someone would buy a Windows Phone only to use Google instead of Bing, but there it is.