Google has added a new feature to Google.com that now allows smartphone and tablet users to write web searches directly on to the screen of their devices. Check out the video below to see the new Google Handwrite feature in action.
To enable the new feature, simply touch “Settings” at the bottom of the Google.com homepage, search results page, or visit google.com/preferences. Then go to the handwrite section and enable the feature to start writing web searches with your finger.
How Google Handwrite Works
“It’s not always easy to use the keyboard on your phone or tablet, especially when you’re on the go. Instead, try Handwrite (beta) on Google.com to write your search terms with your finger rather than typing the words on the keyboard. As you write, your handwritten text converts into words in the search box.”
The Google Handwrite feature has been designed for use with either Android 2.3+ smartphones, Android 4.0+ tablets, and iOS 5+ iPhones and iPads, and is available when you visit Google.com in your device’s browser, but not in other search entry boxes on your device, such as within apps.
Advantages and Use Cases
One of the primary advantages of Google Handwrite is its convenience. Imagine you’re walking down a busy street or sitting in a moving vehicle; typing on a small on-screen keyboard can be cumbersome and error-prone. Handwrite allows you to quickly jot down your search queries without the need for precise typing. This feature can be particularly useful for people with larger fingers who find it difficult to type on small screens.
Moreover, Handwrite can be a game-changer for languages that use complex characters or scripts. For instance, writing Chinese characters or Japanese kanji can be much easier with a finger than trying to find the correct character on a keyboard. This makes the feature highly beneficial for non-Latin script users.
Limitations and Future Improvements
While Google Handwrite is a groundbreaking feature, it does have its limitations. The accuracy of handwriting recognition can vary depending on the user’s handwriting style. People with messy or cursive handwriting might find that the feature struggles to interpret their input correctly. Additionally, the feature is currently only available in the browser and not within other apps, which limits its utility to some extent.
However, Google is continually working on improving its algorithms and expanding the feature’s capabilities. Future updates may include better recognition accuracy, support for more languages, and integration with other Google services and apps.
In conclusion, Google Handwrite is a promising feature that enhances the usability of mobile web searches. It offers a convenient alternative to traditional typing, especially in situations where typing is impractical. As Google continues to refine this feature, it is likely to become an indispensable tool for mobile users worldwide.
Source: Google
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