Google Search update for Windows Phone brings improved voice search, image viewing

Given the strained relationship between Google and Microsoft’s Windows Phone smartphone OS, we’re pleasantly surprised to report that the official search app on the platform just got a pretty major update. The search app which till now essentially let you use Google Search on a Windows Phone device has been updated to support sign ins with your Google account. More importantly, voice commands are now instantly displayed on the screen.

Google reports an improved image viewing experience in the latest version of the application. In addition to these feature additions, there have been a lot of bug fixes and enhancements to resolution as well. This last bit is important given the upcoming range of Full HD Windows Phone 8 based handsets. Google has so far shied away from developing official apps for Microsoft’s smartphone platform citing minimal market share as the reason. Indeed, the company has tried to make matters as tough as possible for Google services users on the Windows Platform by temporarily blocking Maps access in the browser, blocking the release of Youtube apps. The updated search app gives users hope that the search giant might eventually release official applications for its services on Redmond’s floundering platform.