Google has launched a number of new features, just ahead of the holiday shopping season. These include new ways to search and shop, as well as upgrades to Maps.
Many of these features were announced back in September at Google's Search On event. It continues Google's push for a more visual, immersive web experience, and puts its Multisearch AI to use in live search.
Search
Multisearch near me has now launched in the US in English. Use Google Lens to take a picture or a screenshot of a dish or item, and then add ‘near me’ to find a place that sells in near your location.
Here’s how it works.
You can also search for specific dishes and where you can find them nearby. You’ll be able to find any dish and see details like the restaurant it’s from, price and ingredients.
The feature is now available in the US in English on mobile, and in the Google app on Android and iOS.
Shopping
Google has introduced new AR features in shopping, for beauty and shoes.
Find the right foundation shade
A new AR feature makes it much easier to find the exact foundation color that matches your skin tone. A photo library features 148 models representing a wide spectrum of skin tones, ages, genders, face shapes, ethnicities and skin types, helping you visualize which product is the right one for you.
Search for a foundation shade on Google and you’ll be able to see what it looks like on models with a similar tone, including before and after shots. Once you’ve found the right one, you can select a retailer and buy.
Shop for shoes using 3D and AR
You can now shop for shoes using 3D and AR with “View in my space”. This lets you see the shoe from all angles, zoom in on the detail, and see it in your space.
The feature currently works with Saucony, VANS and Merrell and Google says more are coming soon. Any brand with 3D assets for shoes or home goods can now participate.
Maps
Search with live view
Google is this week rolling out search with live view in London, Los Angeles, New York, Paris, San Francisco and Tokyo on Android and iOS.
Using the Google app on your phone, you’ll be able to search and explore locations with AR and see . Click on the camera icon in the search bar to see immersive views of what’s near you in real time, and find shops, cafes, banks etc. AR-powered directions and arrows show you which way to go and distance. You can also see key information about specific locations such as pricing, opening, how busy it is etc.
EV charging stations and accessibility
Google Maps has new filters for a search on EV charging stations. These allow you to find fast charging stations with 50kW or higher, and stations with plugs compatible with your electric car.
Accessibility
Google’s Accessible Places, launched in 2020 in Australia, Japan, US and UK, Japan, is now available globally in iOS and Android. Powered by information from business owners and the community, it shows places which are wheelchair accessible, and which have accessible seating, restrooms and parking. It’s helpful also for those who need stair-free access for any reason.
It's worth checking out Google's new features and seeing which can be applicable for your site or products to extend your reach. Expansion of the features is sure to follow.
