Google search now features handwriting recognition on mobile devices

This is pretty cool. Hot on the heels of today’s Google Earth 3D app update, the company has just made another announcement involving mobile.

Starting today, users will be able to take advantage of a new handwriting recognition feature when googling things on mobile devices…

[tube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FBbfGnFg3lQ[/tube]

9to5Google spotted the new feature, and says Google is now in the process of rolling it out to all users. It allows you to use your finger to write what you are looking for in Google search, instead of typing it.

Here’s how to activate it:

  • Visit google.com/preferences on your iPhone or iPad
  • Enable the ‘Handwrite’ feature and make sure to Save
  • Return to google.com and tap the ‘g’ icon

[tube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uyeJXKfAcpc[/tube]

That’s all there is to it. Keep in mind that the feature is still in beta, and it may not be immediately available in some areas. We’re not exactly sold on its usefulness yet, but it’s something fun to play around with.

What do you think? Cool or pointless?