Google introduced two new features for Android phones running Froyo. First, there's a load of new voice commands, activated by tapping the microphone button in the software search widget or holding the hardware search button. Notably, users can dictate an entire e-mail, leave a "note to self" (Norm Macdonald should be pleased) or call a business by name without looking up the number first. The "listen to" command brings up a list of Web apps, such as Last.fm and Pandora, but it doesn't appear to work with your on-board music library.
Here's the full list of commands you can now enter by voice, in addition to regular Web search:
· send text to [contact] [message]
· listen to [artist/song/album]
· call [business]
· call [contact]
· send email to [contact] [message]
· go to [website]
· note to self [note]
· navigate to [location/business name]
· directions to [location/business name]
The blogosphere seemed to have higher expectations for Google's announcements. Speculation included a dedicated video calling application -- an odd choice, given that only one Android phone to date, HTC's EVO 4G, has a front-facing camera -- a remote geolocation feature similar to "Find My iPhone" and the long-awaited debut of Google Music. Friday's announcements were low-key compared to those prospects, but there's nothing wrong with a little more basic functionality, either.