Google releases ‘Search As You Type’ service for commerce sites
Google search had received a major upgrade in the form of Google Instant in 2010. The upgrade made it unnecessary for users to type out the entire query before seeking search results page. Now the feature is being rolled out as a standalone service for its advertisers, to be known as as ‘Search As You Type’. The pilot is initially available in the U.S. and is likely to be available in others markets soon.
Google’s AdWords partners who have incorporated Google search in their sites will be able to use the feature. As already known, when a user types, a drop down menu with product details and thumbnail pictures of them will appear. The company says the Search As You Type feature will help merchants enhance their existing web search functionality.
According to Google, the service could boost conversion on sites. Since it’s a cloud-based service, it does not require any on-premises equipment. Google’s new service is available as part of its Commerce Search product for AdWords customers, and it’ll be free for up to 25 million queries per year, with licensing fees thereafter. Google hasn’t revealed what fee it intends to charge. U.S.-based retailers Hasbro and Lowes have already started using the Search As You Type service. Check out how the service works in the video below:
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