Is speaking the new typing? With Google voice search, it just might be. Forget finger fatigue, we’ve got bigger fish to fry, like marathoning our favorite shows or admiring adorable babies attempting Herculean feats of weightlifting. Soon, tapping away at keyboards will seem as archaic as using a rotary phone.

Thanks Google! Sure, we could argue that Google’s innovations, while simplifying our digital lives, have inadvertently contributed to a less active lifestyle. But let’s give credit where it’s due – Google Voice Search is a game-changer. Constantly evolving, it’s making our online interactions even more effortless. Last month, Google rolled out some exciting enhancements to Google voice search, allowing it to seamlessly integrate with your other Google accounts and provide personalized information. In this article, we’ll delve deeper into this update and explore the exciting future of voice search.

Google Voice Search: What Exactly Is It? (We Know, It Seems Obvious)

While defining Google Voice Search might seem redundant, it’s necessary to differentiate it from the myriad of Google’s offerings, particularly Google Voice. Google Voice is a voicemail service, while Google Voice Search allows users to input search queries and commands on their mobile devices using their voice. See, different strokes!

Using Google Voice Search: Unveiling the New Commands

Primarily designed for mobile users, Google Voice Search eliminates the need for cumbersome touchpads or tiny keyboards. To use it, simply tap the voice button next to the Google search box and ask Google anything that’s on your mind.

Image taken from Google Search Insights Initially, Google Voice Search primarily focused on search queries, but since August 2013, it has expanded to encompass more intricate commands related to your personal data. Here’s how you can leverage these new commands:

• Flights: Inquire about your flight status with “Is my flight on time?” and receive real-time updates.
• Reservations: Curious about your dinner plans? Just ask for “my reservations” to view upcoming dining arrangements. Similarly, “my hotel” provides your hotel details and directions.
• Purchases: Keep tabs on your online shopping with “my purchases” to check the status of your orders.
• Plans: Plan your day effortlessly by asking “What are my plans for tomorrow?” for an overview of your appointments, flights, reservations, and events.
• Photos: Rediscover your travel memories by asking “Show me my photos from Europe.” Or, browse through your canine companions’ pictures with “my photos of dogs.” Google’s intelligent recognition identifies the photo type. These commands, already enjoyed by Google Now users, are now accessible to all via Google Voice Search, transforming it into your personalized digital assistant. Naturally, these features require you to be signed in to your Google account, allowing Google to access your calendar and Gmail data. If this raises privacy concerns, you can easily disable these options in your Google account settings.

Google Voice Search: Available on a Device Near You

Android Google Voice Search: Modern Android devices come equipped with Google Voice Search, easily accessible via the voice button adjacent to the Google search widget.

Photo by Johan Larsson Android users can go beyond simple searches with voice action commands:

• Launch applications with commands like “Open Angry Birds.”
• Schedule events by saying “Create a calendar event: Breaking Bad Finale party on September 29.”
• Get directions effortlessly – “Directions to iParty.”
• Compose emails without lifting a finger – “Send email to Patti Mayonnaise, subject picking up Doug from the airport, message what time do we need to pick up Doug from the airport question mark, should we bring a sign question mark.” (Yes, saying punctuation marks out loud feels a bit odd.)
• Enjoy your favorite tunes – “Listen to The Scientist by Coldplay.”
• Set reminders with ease – “Set alarm for 7:15 am.” For a complete list of Android voice action commands, visit the Google website. iPhone Google Voice Search: iPhone users, rejoice! While a dedicated app is required, you too can experience the convenience of Google Voice Search. Simply download the Google Search app before dictating your queries and commands. Google Voice Search for Desktop: For those who prefer the comfort of a traditional computer, Google Voice Search for Desktop comes to the rescue.

Image from Google Inside Search Be mindful of your colleagues, though, as using Google Voice Search in a shared workspace might raise a few eyebrows (or induce a few eye rolls). To use it, ensure you have the latest version of Chrome and a working microphone. Navigate to the Google homepage and click the microphone icon to start searching.

For quicker access, install the Google Voice Search Chrome extension, which keeps the microphone icon readily available in your browser’s toolbar.

The Implications of Google Voice Search for SEO and PPC

The rise of voice search aligns with Google’s focus on local search, as voice searches are often conducted on the go, particularly while driving. Imagine – no more frantic pre-trip planning! Just hop in your car and let Google guide you to the nearest craft store or coffee shop. Predicting these on-the-move voice search queries could be the next frontier in PPC. Mobile search queries are already known for their brevity, and we can expect the same with voice searches. Users tend to keep their queries concise, assuming that shorter phrases are more likely to be understood accurately. While voice recognition technology has made significant strides, we’re still adapting to trusting it completely.

What Lies Ahead for Google Voice Search?

The increasing prevalence of voice search is bound to spark discussions about data privacy. Is Google collecting voice data to enhance its voice recognition capabilities? It’s a valid concern in our digital age. If Google is indeed collecting and analyzing voice data, it could significantly benefit the development of Google Glass, a device that relies heavily on voice search. For seamless integration, Google aims to comprehend your commands better than your pet understands your pleas for treats.

Even the cat is curious (Photo by David K) Are you a fan of Google Voice Search? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!