Google has launched search suggestions based on geographical location for iPhone and Android devices. This is currently only available in the United States.
"Typing a query into the search box on a phone can often be slow and difficult," says Google’s Mobile Engineering Team. "For this reason, relevant search suggestions that match your intended query can meaningfully reduce the time and effort it takes to submit a search."
"For example, when users in the Boston metro area begin typing ‘Muse’, suggestions such as ‘museum of science boston’ and ‘museum of fine arts boston’ are provided because people near Boston frequently look for these very popular museums," the team explains. "On the other hand, users in San Francisco who begin their query with ‘Muse’ will see suggestions for museums in the San Francisco area. By using the device’s current or most recent location, Google is able to offer even better, more useful suggestions than ever before."
Users can simply go to Google.com on their phone’s browser and start typing a query to see the suggestions, although they may have to refresh the page first. Users also must have "save recent locations" and "allow use of device location" turned on in the settings.
This feature is just the latest in Google’s frequent upgrades that may have a direct impact on local businesses. This week, Google also made its Place Pages for businesses more useful by letting businesses update them in real-time.
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