Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Look Ma, No Hands - Google Mobile App for Blackberry now with Search by voice and My Location

Remember the last time you tried to search for "Marks & Spencers London SW1W" on your Blackberry and ended up with 10 extra characters in the spelling of "Spencers" before you gave up on the "London" bit? If you're like us and hate typing on that tiny keyboard, you'll be glad to hear that Google Mobile App on your Blackberry will let you search with your voice and with My Location. Give it a try by visiting http://m.google.com on your Blackberry. (Blackberry Storm is not supported at this time.) Your fingers will thank you for it.

Get the latest version of Google Mobile App at http://m.google.com

Suppose you're vacationing in London, and you have a craving for fish and chips. With the My Location feature enabled, you can just enter "fish n chips" into Google Mobile App, and it will return the fish and chips restaurants closest to you. No need to type in "fish and chips near SW1W". And since Google Mobile App displays search suggestions as you type, you may only need to type part of the query before "Best Fish n Chips in London" pops up as a suggestion. We're a fan of anything that saves keystrokes on the way to deep-fried British goodness.

Search suggestions appear as you type, saving you keystrokes and time

Now on your vacation, you could have sworn your friend said to meet in "Lester Square". Unfortunately, "Lester Square" is nowhere to be found on the Tube Map. A quick voice search on Google Mobile App (just press and hold the green button) for "Lester Square" reveals the true spelling. Leicester Square is actually only two stops away on the Picadilly Line. Problem solved! And as always, local results have a link to open Google Maps for mobile to guide you there. Searching by voice can be used in combination with the My Location feature, and it works well with standard Google searches, such as currency conversion and weather. So keystrokes have been reduced... to a single press of the green button in Google Mobile App.


Who knew 'Lester Square' had an extra 'ice' in its spelling.

And if you happen to speak with a British accent, you'll be happy to know that we now support British English as well. Google Mobile App is now available on all versions of Blackberry running on O/S 4.1+ and with Search by voice on O/S 4.2 and above, although the Blackberry Storm is not supported at this time. 

Posted by Luca Zanolin, Google Mobile App engineer
at

66 comments:

  1. Michael RomeroMarch 25, 2009 at 8:59 AM

    Is this not live for BlackBerry Storm devices? I went to http://m.google.com on my Storm and I don't see the ability to download the App.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Carlos F RodriguezMarch 25, 2009 at 9:08 AM

    I couldn't download it to the Blackberry Storm. AIt doesn't ahve a shortcut to download it.

    ReplyDelete
  3. UnknownMarch 25, 2009 at 9:23 AM

    i just tried it from a sprint 8330 BlackBerry and for some reason its not showing it for me either. hmm.

    ReplyDelete
  4. SteveMarch 25, 2009 at 9:37 AM

    This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Todd BensonMarch 25, 2009 at 9:46 AM

    Chiming in on the fact that it NOT available (at time of this writing) for the Blackberry Storm. *whimpers*

    ReplyDelete
  6. KevMarch 25, 2009 at 9:55 AM

    does anyone know when this will go live for the storm?? thanks

    ReplyDelete
  7. UnknownMarch 25, 2009 at 10:04 AM

    ok as an update, it didnt say anything on m.google.com about the voice search, so i downloaded the google mobile app again anyways, and its being used by myself right now to find the closest italian eatery!

    this is awesome

    it IS working on BlackBerry 8330 (curve)

    ReplyDelete
  8. UnknownMarch 25, 2009 at 10:16 AM

    no link to download anything for me either. i'm on a storm.

    ReplyDelete
  9. KevMarch 25, 2009 at 10:18 AM

    Yeah I am on a storm also and I don't see a link to download google mobile or a page like the screencaps above!!

    ReplyDelete
  10. DanMarch 25, 2009 at 10:51 AM

    Any update how to get it on the Storm?

    ReplyDelete
  11. BradyMarch 25, 2009 at 10:54 AM

    No Storm support? That seems like a bad move considering it's one of the hottest phones on the market right now. *cries*

    ReplyDelete
  12. JojoMarch 25, 2009 at 10:58 AM

    I would advise that if you launch new apps or functionality for devices like a blackberry and it's not available for all blackberry devices, in my case the storm that you list which blackberry devices it does support.

    Every time I see a post like this I only get let down to see that it doesn't support my Storm...

    ReplyDelete
  13. AnonymousMarch 25, 2009 at 11:01 AM

    Sam, I've upgraded today to the latest GMA on my 8330, but each time I hold down the *send* key to search by voice, I get an error message that says "try restarting Google Mobile App". Did you have to do anything special to get yours to work? Who's your carrier?

    ReplyDelete
  14. DanMarch 25, 2009 at 11:24 AM

    This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  15. DanMarch 25, 2009 at 11:27 AM

    I found using Opera Mini on a Storm you can browse to the page and see the link to the .jad. I haven't had time to play with it or test the voice search since I'm at work.

    If you disable compatibility mode it seems you lose the ability to move around to the different links at the top of the screen for me but I haven't had time to test searches either since I have spotty coverage. I received an error that says Google Mobile App can't connect but like I said, that might just be low signal strength.

    It looks like the .jad url is http://m.google.com/m/download/googlemobileapp/apps/3.3.38/L1/BlackBerry-42/GoogleSearch.jad?dc=gorganic

    Good luck to those who want to try it!

    ReplyDelete
  16. Todd BensonMarch 25, 2009 at 12:21 PM

    Dan, thanks. I'm trying right now. Downloaded to my desktop and emailing to my Storm.

    ReplyDelete
  17. Todd BensonMarch 25, 2009 at 12:51 PM

    Dan, would not work for me trying to install from email.

    ReplyDelete
  18. Brian J KingMarch 25, 2009 at 1:01 PM

    Obviously no storm support. I guess let us know when there will be plz.

    ReplyDelete
  19. Ryan MoreheadMarch 25, 2009 at 1:11 PM

    Yes, the future please put Blackberry (Except Storm) or something, so that I don't get excited for nothing.

    ReplyDelete
  20. UnknownMarch 25, 2009 at 1:15 PM

    Running a BB Curve 8330 on VZW and when I hold the *send* key to speak, I get an error message that says "try restarting Google Mobile App".

    it ID's my geo and other functions appear to work - just not this.

    Any help would be appreciated!

    ReplyDelete
  21. ShtiklerMarch 25, 2009 at 1:21 PM

    Ditto me on the error message for VZW 8330 Curve. What gives?

    ReplyDelete
  22. UnknownMarch 25, 2009 at 1:32 PM

    Works great on my VZW 8830! Love the voice search!

    ReplyDelete
  23. DanMarch 25, 2009 at 1:49 PM

    @ Todd - I just went to the site and typed in that URL on my storm.

    ReplyDelete
  24. UnknownMarch 25, 2009 at 2:04 PM

    Very sad that another Google Mobile App is not available for the Storm. As someone said earlier, at least be up front and tell us its not Storm compatable so we don't try to get it and only get frustrated.

    ReplyDelete
  25. UnknownMarch 25, 2009 at 2:16 PM

    installed on my storm... haven't messed with it much, but the voice search option certainly doesn't work.

    ReplyDelete
  26. UnknownMarch 25, 2009 at 2:30 PM

    I used cut and paste to grab the address in Dan's post above and was able to DL it with BB browser on the third try.

    I used the voice search and said McDonalds and it came back with "Vick's Dog Bowl". =o

    ReplyDelete
  27. ChrisMarch 25, 2009 at 2:34 PM

    Getting same message as Wayne, "try restarting Google Mobile App", for VZW BB 8130 Pearl.

    Any resolution available?

    ReplyDelete
  28. JonoMarch 25, 2009 at 2:39 PM

    Nice. For Symbian too please.

    ReplyDelete
  29. KnigmaMarch 25, 2009 at 4:00 PM

    Just tried on my 8130 4.5.0.127 CDMA Pearl. Downloaded and replace my older version of GM Apps. But after rebooting (battery pull) I started the program and it mentioned changing security to allow for location and radio access but I am connected to a BES (BlackBerry Enterprise Server) and can not set the GPS to "Allow" I have to leave it at "Prompt". After saving the settings on Security Permissions the app started up and prompt a few times for "Application Permissions" it got to "GoogleSearch is attempting to access radio information that may identify your location." And is locked up at this point. I had to hold END key to restart. I remember this happening with some upgrades to Google Mobile Maps for the BlackBerry a few months ago.

    What are the BES permissions needed for GoogleSearch ?

    Once I rebooted the BB it started working.

    ReplyDelete
  30. Todd BensonMarch 25, 2009 at 4:09 PM

    All Storm users: Dan's link indeed works. I pasted it into a Opera Mini bookmark, then clicked the bookmark. It asked if I wanted to save the file. I clicked OK and the BB browser kicked in and installed the app.

    I have not done a battery pull, but up to this point the voice thingy does not work.

    The local search is nice since it is automatic based on your location (location-aware).

    It does show the portrait keyboard in a constant state, and does not go to landscape mode. :(

    A decent non-Google alternative would be the Superpages app.

    ReplyDelete
  31. Josh HMarch 25, 2009 at 4:26 PM

    I was able to download new version, but when I press talk button to speak I keep getting an error message that says "Try restarting Google Mobile App". Have tried restarting 5 times already with no luck.

    ReplyDelete
  32. SFUMATOMarch 25, 2009 at 7:08 PM

    voice does not work on VZW 8330 as others have said. Everything else works. Permissions and all settings are correct yet it does not work

    ReplyDelete
  33. AnanyaMarch 25, 2009 at 8:03 PM

    When is it expected for symbian S60 phones...please...?

    ReplyDelete
  34. brokenmonkeyMarch 25, 2009 at 9:35 PM

    This is bull, why support all the old phones first and not the Storm? Especially when the Storm can run older apps in compatibility mode anyway? I'd rather have a decent Google Reader app/site for BlackBerry than this anyway but since it exists why not give it to Storm users too? It seems like this is to keep up with the iPhone/G1 but if the similar BlackBerry device isn't supported why release it?

    ReplyDelete
  35. Chris RowanMarch 25, 2009 at 11:18 PM

    This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  36. Chris RowanMarch 25, 2009 at 11:20 PM

    Back to my 8703e because I returned my Storm (don't get me started).

    My Location works but Voice Search does NOT seem to work.

    Running 4.2.1.110 which fits the bill. The little green phone icon doesn't show up.

    Yes, I did a battery pull.

    What gives?

    ReplyDelete
  37. mystady.comMarch 26, 2009 at 2:14 AM

    Holy crap! You listened to our feedback! You really really listened! Holy shit! Wow! I'm shocked.

    Good show you guys, this is really really cool!

    Can we get this kind of service and support on the Blogger side of the Googleverse?

    Shocked...

    ReplyDelete
  38. UnknownMarch 26, 2009 at 3:06 AM

    "Try restarting Google Mobile App"

    Hello, I am also getting this error as well. I tried changing my permission settings, battery pull, everything....

    Any solutions to this fix yet? I am using a 8330 in Canada.

    Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
  39. UnknownMarch 26, 2009 at 5:30 AM

    Google, you should be ashamed. The Blackberry Storm is the most advanced Blackberry on the market. It should be the first device to get software upgrades, not the last. The fact that you don't even have an older version of google app for the storm, but have now updated the app for older devices, is simply a bad decision.

    Support the storm.

    ReplyDelete
  40. UnknownMarch 26, 2009 at 6:56 AM

    Voice search works great on my Bold!!

    ReplyDelete
  41. brokenmonkeyMarch 26, 2009 at 6:56 AM

    Dan's link worked to get it on my Storm and it actually works, voice search and location. Which makes it all the more mysterious why there isn't a legit Storm version available. The only thing that doesn't work is the icons across the top, I can only open Gmail no matter which icon I clicked.

    ReplyDelete
  42. Johnny CanuckMarch 26, 2009 at 7:02 AM

    Absolute proof that now one reads the actual blog and simply goes straight the "Download Candy". They state in the first paragraph with a link that it does not work on the Storm...

    Tried using it on the Pearl 2 8130 and it keeps flashing "Try Restarting Google Mobile App." Restarting does nothing.

    Anyone else?

    ReplyDelete
  43. UnknownMarch 26, 2009 at 7:15 AM

    Cmon Google...the whole point of voice search is that you don't have to type...so of COURSE BBerry Storm users would want it...you don't need this if you have a Curve! Get busy!

    ReplyDelete
  44. DanMarch 26, 2009 at 7:26 AM

    I really don't remember reading that disclaimer about not being supported for the Storm. I almost want to say it was added after since I think I read that paragraph a couple times after not seeing the link with the default blackberry browser.

    ReplyDelete
  45. UnknownMarch 26, 2009 at 9:10 AM

    Aaarrgguuhhhhhh . . . finally an app that would allow me to not have to type out what I'm searching for on my Storm, and it's the one app not yet supported! Blah. Common Google, help!

    ReplyDelete
  46. Bradd PiontekMarch 26, 2009 at 9:26 AM

    Any resolution to the "Try Restarting Google Mobile App." issue. i've installed this on two Curve 8330 (USC) with 4.5 installed on them. Voice Search does not work.

    ReplyDelete
  47. itugaMarch 26, 2009 at 1:46 PM

    I read the following quote, but I can't find it to be true: "And as always, local results have a link to open Google Maps for mobile to guide you there."

    I'm on a Sprint BB 8830, and the only mapping options open the map inside the mobile browser (with limited functionality) instead of launching google maps.

    am I doing something wrong?

    ReplyDelete
  48. mbparksMarch 26, 2009 at 5:24 PM

    I'll chime in here to regarding the Voice Search problems on the VZW BB Curve 8330. Same issue as everyone else, hold the green talk button and I am told to try restarting Google Mobile App. Looks like someone was asleep at the QC wheel.

    ReplyDelete
  49. AnonymousMarch 27, 2009 at 5:34 AM

    This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

    ReplyDelete
  50. AnonymousMarch 27, 2009 at 9:48 AM

    ...and windows mobile? sometime soon? I'd love to have that feature on my touch pro.

    ReplyDelete
  51. the lazy inventorMarch 27, 2009 at 9:58 AM

    I have a product suggestion. From the main Google Mobile App screen, it would be nice if there was a voice command to go directly to Google Maps with the query instead of searching for it and providing a link to maps. This would cut out a manual entry step while driving. For now I need to keep my convenience key tied to GMaps instead of GMobile.

    ReplyDelete
  52. UnknownMarch 27, 2009 at 11:29 AM

    Vzw 8130 4.5.0.77 -Same issue here with the voice search and "please restart google mobile app" also happens within google maps 3.0.2

    ReplyDelete
  53. AnonymousMarch 27, 2009 at 12:56 PM

    QFE

    "sk said...

    I have a product suggestion. From the main Google Mobile App screen, it would be nice if there was a voice command to go directly to Google Maps with the query instead of searching for it and providing a link to maps. This would cut out a manual entry step while driving. For now I need to keep my convenience key tied to GMaps instead of GMobile.
    March 27, 2009 9:58 AM "

    ABSOLUTELY!

    ReplyDelete
  54. FinderMarch 27, 2009 at 2:34 PM

    I have a Pearl 8130. When I hold down the *send* key to search by voice, I get an error message that says "try restarting Google Mobile App".

    I tried changing different "permissions" and then, that failing, deleted and reinstalled it. I still get the error message?

    ReplyDelete
  55. UnknownMarch 27, 2009 at 4:45 PM

    Same on my Verizon 8330. Keeps saying try to restart the app. Did all that half a dozen times and even re-installed 4 times. Everything else works fine. Only the voice button gives the same restart message.

    ReplyDelete
  56. AllanonMarch 27, 2009 at 4:54 PM

    Go this today, it's absolutely B****Y brilliant _ Glad I didn't buy a Storm now! My iPhone owning mate even looked a bit sick when I showed him what it can do.
    FABOULOUS!!!

    ReplyDelete
  57. AnonymousMarch 28, 2009 at 2:54 AM

    This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

    ReplyDelete
  58. Antonio B Duarte JrMarch 28, 2009 at 3:24 AM

    I really aprecciate to read your blog. We here from Brazil have learned a lot from your posts. When is possible take a look mine page of Curso de Analista de Suporte Técnico. Antonio B Duarte Jr.

    ReplyDelete
  59. FinderMarch 28, 2009 at 6:01 PM

    Official Google Mobile Blog?

    Is there actually any one here from Google or Blackberry?

    I see a post has been removed by an administrator, but nary an answer to a question.

    ReplyDelete
  60. David EnzelMarch 29, 2009 at 5:38 AM

    This app is amazing! It works perfectly on my BB 8830 on VZW. Is there a way to check for software updates from within the app?

    ReplyDelete
  61. AnonymousMarch 29, 2009 at 9:54 PM

    Hi Rich, and any other folks looking for support - just wanted to let you that there are 2 places to go if you need answers: our Help Center and our Help Forum. You'll probably have more luck there!

    ReplyDelete
  62. blocusiusApril 9, 2009 at 12:47 PM

    Hi,
    I'm on blackberry bold in France and try to download the new google mobile app from m.google.com. I have a 500 error : java.io.IOException: Resource could not be found http://m.google.com/search/download/binaries/L1/3.3.38/BlackBerry-46/GoogleSearch-7.cod: 404 - Not Found.
    Could you fix this ?

    Thanks

    ReplyDelete
  63. evolvetekApril 15, 2009 at 2:50 PM

    Why, oh why, Google, did you not add the voice search feature to your Windows Mobile version of this application?

    I am truly baffled by this decision.

    You know the technology exists to do so ... It has for several years.

    Microsoft's Live Search app does a poor job of implementing voice, plus I want to use my GOOGLE suite of products.

    Please, at least provide some insight as to the reasons behind this poopy decision?

    /s

    ReplyDelete
  64. UnknownApril 21, 2009 at 1:46 PM

    can't get maps onto my BOLD (Blackberry 9000) :(

    ReplyDelete
  65. ShtiklerApril 23, 2009 at 9:10 AM

    For those who are still having difficulty with the 8330, I recently upgraded my OS to 4.5.0.138 and then it worked!

    ReplyDelete
  66. BassApril 29, 2009 at 5:33 PM

    When will this be available for Windows Mobile 6.1?

    ReplyDelete

You are welcome to contribute comments, but they should be relevant to the conversation. We reserve the right to remove off-topic remarks in the interest of keeping the conversation focused and engaging. Shameless self-promotion is well, shameless, and will get canned.