Google Search can now dive into app data

Search is one of the foundation functions of Google and recently the company has been working to make improvements to this basic feature. Earlier this week Google revealed that Search could handle complex questions and figure out the meaning of what is being asked. Now they have revealed a tool for the other side of the equation that helps provide better answers. This will be accomplished by being able to dive into the data that is locked away inside of apps instead of just relying on what is available on the web.

Google says they have compiled over 100 billion deep links into apps in their search index to help respond to the 40% of searches that Android users perform on their mobile devices. The apps include platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Airbnb and Pinterest. The data that Google taps into is no longer limited to information that was also available via matching web content. Even if the information is only in the app, Search can still find it.

Even better, users do not even need the source app installed for Search to be able to find it. If a user is on a good WiFi connection Google can now “stream” an app so that users can dig down and view the results as if they had the app installed. Of course, users who like what they find will have easy access to install an app, so there is some incentive for developers to be part of this new tool. At this time, Google has partnered with HotelTonight, Chimani, Daily Horoscope and New York Subway on this new feature, but they expect more partners to come on board.

source: Google Inside Search

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