Google for iOS 4.0 brings smarter voice conversations, more Google Now features

Google today released a major update to its iOS app, adding a bunch of new features including much smarter voice conversations, a wider array of topics for articles in Google Now, and other improvements.

Here are the release notes:

With today’s update, you can ask questions with your voice & get updates on topics you care about.

Have a smarter conversation with Google:
• Tap the microphone or say “Ok Google” to start
• Ask questions such as “What’s the weather like?”
• Then follow up with “How about this weekend?”

Google Now recently started recommending articles that might interest you, and Google for iOS 4.0 will now show articles that cover your favorite topic or travel destination, or is published by an author or blog you like. The update also adds Cricket sports cards to Google Now, improves search and Google Now load times, and enhances the image results UI.

If the app hasn’t been automatically updated, you can download the update via the Updates tab in the App Store app or use the iTunes link below.

Download link:

? Google for iOS – free

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WSJ reports:

Apple is in early discussions to integrate local data from Foursquare Labs Inc. into its mapping application, according to people familiar with the talks, as the company continues to build an arsenal of local data to try to take on Google.

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Via: WSJ

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The announcement could be made as early as next week, at Apple's WWDC keynote

.

Google would still be the default choice, but users would now have the option of choosing Baidu and searching right from Mobile Safari's search bar. Presently, Chinese users have to either visit Baidu's website or download an app to search on an iPhone. It remains to be seen if Apple will add Baidu in iOS 5.x.x or in iOS 6.

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WSJ reports:

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We've been eagerly waiting for the day when Google and Apple take their rivalry to Maps app. It looks like that day is coming soon.

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