Google has launched a new version of Google Goggles, the application that lets users point their phone’s camera at a variety of things and get search results by taking a picture. The new version, version 1.3, is faster and smarter, according to Google. It can scan barcodes "almost instantly," the company says. 

"Open Goggles and hover over the barcode or QR code," says a blog post from a couple of Google software engineers. "Within a second the phone gently vibrates and presents results, without requiring a button press. Simply tap on the result to read product reviews, check in-store availability and compare prices."

Goggles can also now recognize print ads from magazines and newspapers, and even solve Sudoku puzzles. This is illustrated in the following clip: 

The video also displays what would appear to be a new tagline for Google Goggles – "Solving life’s problems, one puzzle at a time."

The print ad functionality could be pretty useful for those interested in the product being advertised. Even if the ad does not come with a QR code, readers will still be able to scan the ad and get more info.