Google brings Now functionality to Windows 8 with search app
Google has released a search app for Windows 8 devices, much as it has for those running iOS and the BlackBerry OS.
The app, flagged up by Microsoft engineer Mohamed Mansour in a Google+ post on Tuesday, makes it possible for users to search through Google's engine without needing to fire up a browser. It also provides a quick link to Google services including Gmail, Drive, YouTube, Reader, Maps and Calendar.
Google has also put voice control into the app — in Mansour's words, Google Now is "baked in", giving Windows 8 devices some of the same functionality as that on Android 'Jelly Bean' 4.1 smartphones and tablets.
Mansour also noted in his post's comment thread that "there is no difference between the Bing integration in Windows 8 and the Google Search integration in Windows 8 [as] they are both Windows 8 apps and they are embedded into the Search Charm".
It is important to note that Windows 8 does not, in this case, equate to Windows RT. Windows RT is designed for ARM-based devices, and according to News.com, the app will only run on x86-based chips.
Windows 8's big launch is on Friday. The RT-based Microsoft Surface will go on sale on the same day.