Google Adds Searching by Voice to iPhone Software

Google researchers have added sophisticated voice recognition technology to the company’s search software for the Apple iPhone. The New York Times reports.

Users of the free application, which Apple is expected to make available as soon as Friday through its iTunes store, can place the phone to their ear and ask virtually any question, like “Where’s the nearest Starbucks?” or “How tall is Mount Everest?” The sound is converted to a digital file and sent to Google’s servers, which try to determine the words spoken and pass them along to the Google search engine.

The search results, which may be displayed in just seconds on a fast wireless network, will at times include local information, taking advantage of iPhone features that let it determine its location.

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emily | 8:29 AM | Technology |
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