Google Local for mobile now available on select phones

[Brian]

Have you ever found yourself out and about and in need of the full power of Google Local search in the palm of your hand? Your wish has just been granted with Google Local for mobile, but there is some bad news.

Local for mobile works with most Java-enabled (J2ME) mobile phones offered by Cingular and Sprint, and all color BlackBerry devices regardless of carrier. At this time, Local for mobile doesn't work with Nextel, T-Mobile or BREW-enabled phones (e.g. Verizon, Alltel, U.S. Cellular), or Palm devices. To see whether the application will work on your phone, simply visit http://www.google.com/glm/getstarted.html and answer a few questions about your mobile phone.

Here's what it does have to offer in terms of mobile search to those fortunate souls who possess a compatible device with a data plan:

Combining directions, maps, and satellite imagery, Google Local for mobile is a free download that lets you find local hangouts and businesses across town or across the country — right from your phone.

Detailed directions: Whether you plan to walk or drive, your route is displayed on the map itself, together with step-by-step directions.

Integrated search results: Local business locations and contact information appear all in one place, integrated on your map.

Easily movable maps: Interactive, draggable maps let you zoom in or out, and move in all directions so you can orient yourself visually.

Satellite imagery: Get a bird's eye view of your desired location.


You can find out more about Google Local for mobile and download it here.

[TadW]

Didn't Motorola and Google recently announced a partnership? Who knows perhaps Motorola will equip its phones with special hardware and software features that will make special use of Google Local. Could give them a competitive edge over their competitiors.