Nokia integrates Google into handsets

 

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Posted on 12 Feb 2008 at 13:52

Nokia is adding Google to the list of search engines available through the search application on its handsets.

The search application allows users to search without opening up a web-browser and the company already has deals in place with Yahoo and Microsoft, as well as Baidu in China and Yandex in Russia.

Google will initially be available on the Nokia N96, N78, 6210 Navigator and Nokia 6220 classic, though the company says it will extend it to other handsets in the future.

"This might be a bit of a defensive move in light of Android-based devices supposedly coming in the second half of 2008," says Gartner analyst Carolina Milanesi. "Although Nokia might not adopt the platform, it is making sure to work with Google and offer consumers what they want."

Google is scheduled to roll out its Android software, a direct rival to Nokia's S60 platform, for mobile phones later this year.

Google search is already available on Nokia's internet tablets, while its high-end handsets support YouTube.