The main feature of the new Google app is of course the quick search. As the app’s name suggest, users can search for whatever they want quicker and easier than before. Whether it’s directions, restaurants views or random facts like "how tall is the Eiffel tower," (note: it's 1,063 feet tall) you can just type want you’re looking for right on the home screen. Nevertheless, the Google Now app has a few new features that makes it better than the typical Google search bar.
Voice recognition
Just like the Siri app, Google Now is voice activated. Users need only to say what they want. No typing is necessary.
Just-in-Time Results
No more living in the past, the just-in-time results keep users constantly up to date with the outside world. News articles appear immediately after released. Weather status change to follow the day as it goes on. Driving direction also provide a live report of traffic in the area. All this and more is done without clicking a refresh button.
Personalized Results
Unlike Siri or other search apps, Google Now remembers your searches. Now you future searches will be personalized to your liking, allowing you to find the information you like faster.
So will this new app be a problem for Siri? Probably not. The Google Now app is a great feature but it has a few flaws.
Personal Space
For one, it’s almost too personal. In order to work properly, Google needs to access your personal data on your phone. For some, this is fine. For others, it’s an invasion of privacy. They don’t want anyone, let alone a major company, to have access to their personal data, especially not their GPS location.
No Fun
Google Now doesn’t have the humor that Siri does. Every iPhone user has once or twice played with Siri. Questions like “Siri, what gender are you?” or “Siri, who is your mom and dad?” are frequently asked questions by users, and Siri always gives a response that gets a quick laugh. Google Now doesn't have that comedy, and so in a way makes the app boring.
Say What?
Many users have reported that the voice activation is faulty and hard to use. Siri’s, on the other hand, is clear and easy.
The Google app is good but not good enough. The new search results provide amazing feedback but but the app in general is not as fun or properly constructed as the Siri app. Users will more than likely use Google Now with Siri but not in substitute of. Google needs to be a little more creative and thorough in their work if they plan on toppling Apple’s app. Do you agree or disagree? Voice your thoughts down below.