How would you use Voice Search on your phone?

One of the most talked-about developments this week is the updated Google application for iPhone. The Google app previously did not do much more than the mobile search, except adding the ability to search through your iPhone contacts list. The new update has a new key feature : Voice Search.


The Voice Search is very easy to use. You tap on a Voice Search button on the Google App, then say the keyword or phrase into the microphone.

If the app was unable to understand / “grab” your words, you’ll be prompted to retry. Otherwise, it will take a few seconds to retrieve the result.

Overall, the results are still a hit and miss affair. Much of it depends on your accent and how you speak. The voice engine is designed to work best with “North American” accents. Typical search terms like “George Bush” and “Britney Spears” almost always work no matter who is speaking.

So, Google Voice Search works, and it’s a great demonstration for the power of the iPhone (and Google) but how truly useful is it? I can’t think of many scenarios when a typical user would want to use Voice Search on the iPhone. I’d do it in a situation if I was unable to type on the iPhone’s touch screen. For example, I may use it when I’m driving, but if it was urgent, I’d stop and do a proper search.

Can you suggest any other scenarios for a voice search on your phone?

Tagged with: apple iphone • Google Voice Search

Filed under: iPhone • Mobile Software

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