Google to launch verbal Internet searches

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., Nov. 14 (UPI) -- Voice-recognition software added to the iPhone's search system takes U.S. Internet giant Google a step closer to solving a key goal, a company official said.

Google could launch the free software though Apple's iTunes store on Friday, The New York Times reported.

While not 100 percent accurate, the software makes it possible to ask the phone to research questions on the Internet. Typing queries could fall by the wayside for consumers who would prefer to speak into their phones questions like, "Where's the nearest Italian restaurant?" or "What's the score of the Yankee game?" the Times said.

The software could also link Google into a new revenue stream as it pitches the service to advertisers, the Times said.

One of the system's features allows the search to identify the location of the caller, so the search can highlight local businesses where applicable, the Times said.

The key goal is to figure out the best way to make Internet queries and get information to consumers.

"Solving those two problems in a world-class way is our goal," said Vic Gundotra, the head of Google's mobile business division.