Android

Google Now is a new Google smartphone application that is set to further revolutionise the way in which our smartphones are integrated into our lives. The application is currently only available on devices running Android Jelly Bean which is why not many people are familiar with it despite launching over six months ago. Google Now incorporates many different Google features into a single interface, combining voice search and a system of ‘cards’ that automatically bubble up relevant information to the phone’s home screen on a contextual basis. The application provides the user with all the real time personalised information they could possibly need, presenting it automatically, even before the user asks for it.

It tells you today’s weather before you start your day, how much traffic to expect before you leave for work, when the next train will arrive as you’re standing on the platform, or your favorite team’s score while they’re playing. And the best part? All of this happens automatically. Cards appear throughout the day at the moment you need them.

Like Siri for the iPhone, Google Now is another example of how the smartphone is becoming more of a personal assistant to users, anticipating what you need before you ask for it. The video below shows the application in action highlighting how smartphone functionality is becoming more intuitive and is a good indication of how users will further integrate their mobile into their lives in the near future.