Google creates voice search app for iPhone

The app will use complex digital processing to convert spoken words into a digital file which can be analysed in seconds

The iPhone's about to get even smarter, with Google creating an app that brings advanced voice search to the handset

Published on Nov 14, 2008

Google has developed a voice recognition-powered search application for the iPhone that will enable users to get answers to spoken questions.

The free application, which is expected to go live on the App Store imminently, will use complex digital processing to convert spoken words into a digital file which can then be analysed in seconds by Google's servers. Results could be returned and displayed within seconds, according to a report in the New York Times.

In addition to working out what's being said, the Google servers will also be able to use location-based information from the iPhone to add an extra location-based element to search results.

So as well as getting answers to general queries, users could ask "where's the nearest MacDonalds?" and get localised results - and directions.

According to the New York Times, the application could be made available via Apple's iPhone App Store as soon as this Friday.

Via New York Times