Goog-411 bears its first fruits
Google launched a new voice-search app for the iPhone on Friday. The search giant is finally cashing in on its free 411 phone service. As some speculated when it launched, Goog-411 has turned into something more than just a money-losing information service. Goog-411 helps Google collect a variety of samples to construct a voice-guided search-engine application.
I wonder if Google will attach a short, verbal AdWords-like advertisement to these searches? Local search, especially as connected to cell phones and increasingly as linked to the phones’ GPS services, is a HUGE developing market. Imagine having your ad included as a sponsored result for someone’s voice search. “Nick’s Pizza Shack. Just 10 minutes from you in beautiful downtown Akron. Press 1 to call for reservations.” The possibilities are amazing.
Update: And the whole thing is in limbo.
yes… this would be absolutely stellar. I’d love it if I could have a little wedding photography ad associated with a search related services (searching for a reception hall, caterer, weirdo with a camera).
Amazing how snotty Apple seems to be handling it. Sometimes this is what happens when you get too big I guess.
Did anyone notice that the picture of the guy demoing it looks like Bill Gates? I bet it is. He’s probably searching for “another lame ad campaign”. Sorry Jerry…
November 29, 2008 at 7:12 pm