Google Inc. today launched two new services, Google Local and an expansion of Google SMS, that let consumers use wireless handheld devices to search Google’s web-based databases for details on retail products, store locations and other information.
A shopper who can’t find what she wants in a particular store, for example, could log onto Google.com from a handheld web device, click on the Google Local section to enter a product name and ZIP code, then receive a text message listing the names and addresses of other retail stores offering similar merchandise.
Google has also added a directions service to Google SMS (short message service), which lets users enter basic information on a planned trip, then receive a text message with detailed driving directions to their destination. To request the directions, users send a text message to 46645 (“GOOGL” on most cell phones).
Use of the new services requires an XHTML-enabled mobile phone.
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