Google is testing ‘Search Lite,’ a lighter version of its original ‘Search’ app that is designed for areas with slow internet connections. The functionality of ‘Search Lite’ app will be the same as Google’s current cross-platform, ‘Search.’ The app is currently only available on Play Store in Indonesia, reported Android Police.
The main difference between the original app and the lighter version is that the latter uses very little data. Users will now be able to search for content by simply typing or speaking, thanks to the translate feature. Local information like weather and businesses will be brought in form of a grid of icons to the users on their smartphone screens – similar to what a home screen filled with apps looks like.
The search-giant pulled off the same deed with the lighter version of its YouTube app, as well with the launch of ‘YouTube Go.’ The company is expected to roll out the beta version of its ‘YouTube Go,’ app globally sometime this year. The Alphabet Inc-led company has been working towards a low-data version of its Android software system as well, called ‘Android Go.’ All of these activities fall in line with Google CEO, Sundar Pichai’s vision of reaching the ‘next billion users.’
