Google has redesigned its local search results for the iPad. In my view this indicates the increasing importance of tablets in the overall device landscape. Indeed Mary Meeker’s recent slide presentation (based on third party data) predicts that tablet ownership will overtake PC ownership late next year.
That’s probably a bit aggressive. But it’s safe to say that there will be over 100 million tablets in the US market by the middle of next year.
The new Google iPad experience for local features a “carousel” approach and horizontal scrolling between listings. The clicks are much reduced and there’s a lot more information accessible immediately on the SERP.
Here’s what it looks like in portrait and landscape modes:
What do you think about it? We can debate whether tablets should be considered “mobile devices,” but how do you believe Google is doing in “mobile” search generally?
December 5th, 2012 at 3:56 pm
Love how quickly you got this post out, Greg! This is the first I’ve heard of the news. I personally love the UX design from Google. It seems as though “Page 1″ has been expanded significantly with this update – I see upwards of 21 local restaurants showing up for my “Sushi Indianapolis” search from my iPad.
From a “mobile” standpoint I think Google is doing a tremendous job – personally. This UX beats allows amazing functionality for any kind of query I submit to Google. I give it a thumbs up.
December 5th, 2012 at 11:26 pm
I think it’s an improvement as well.
December 6th, 2012 at 4:38 am
Thanks for sharing the new info regarding Google’s iPad search results, Greg. I like the new design, and as Rob pointed out, it allows more local results to appear on the first page. What I also noticed is the prominence of the business’ review ratings. This again emphasizes the need for businesses to always be working on getting more and providing good service that leads to good reviews.
December 6th, 2012 at 10:31 pm
[...] can see the new layout and more details in Greg’s post about the New iPad Google Local Search Experience – and then keep reading to find out why YOU need to care about local even if you operate [...]
December 13th, 2012 at 7:16 am
[...] Maps users (e.g., interior photography, Street View). Horizontal scrolling between listings (a la Google’s new local search on the iPad) is also very [...]