Google adds location aware searches for Windows Mobile

Finding location

Location found

Local search results

Earlier today Google announced that it has added an automatic localized search capability to Google.com for Windows Mobile powered smartphones. The system makes use of the same cell tower information that the Google Maps application uses to provide local results for most any search term.

Windows Mobile users that wish to take advantage of the new service should point their smartphone's browser to Google.com and then click on the "My Location" link that should appear under the search box. Google Gears needs to be available on the device, and will require a reboot of the phone after its installation if it isn't found.

After that, Google.com will automatically note your rough location and apply that information against your search queries. Google maintains that your location information will not be associated with your personal information in any way - even if you are logged into your Google account.

We tested out the new service with a quick "pizza" search and were pleased with the results in general, though it at times it tended to want to place us in Trenton instead of our local neighborhood, which is located about 10 minutes away.