Google has posted an update for the iPad version of its Search App.

The free App has been updated to include a number of additional features from the Google Search platform as well as a few unique features for the iPad.

Among the features offered by the update is Google Instant. The search tool allows users to see possible results as they type, the time-saving feature has proven popular since it was first introduced for Google online search in September of last year.

Additionally, the update will bring a new iPad navigation system which will sport result preview panels and allow users to view images on a carousel presentation screen which can be navigated through tap gestures.

Google has posted a video demonstration of the new App along with more information on its Mobile blog.

While iPad-optimised applications have existed since Apple first introduced the tablet, the practice seems to be picking up steam as both developers and iOS grow even more sophisticated and familiar with the iPad. We're anxious to see what features can to the iPad version of recently-ported applications such as Minecraft. 

Google has launched a music store and streaming service to rival Apple's iTunes, allowing customers to buy tracks directly from the Android Market.

Google Music lists more than 13 million tracks from labels such as Universal, Sony and EMI, and allows the saving of playlists online and the sharing of tracks with contacts through Google+.

The service also offers exclusive tracks from the Rolling Stones, Pearl Jam and Dave Matthews Band. Google has promised to court independent artists and smaller labels through the Artist Hub site.

"Google Music helps you spend more time listening to your collection and less time managing it," said a blog post by Andy Rubin, senior vice president of mobile at Google.

"We automatically sync your entire music library, purchases and uploads, across all your devices so you don't have to worry about cables, file transfers or running out of storage space."

Google Music could present the biggest challenge yet to iTunes. Apple has defeated all challengers to date, but Google has a huge brand and the resources to go head to head with the market leader.

It could also wean some people away from the Apple brand and convince them to move to Android.

Google Music is currently available in the US, and will be expanded to other territories soon.

There has long been talk of a secret project in Cupertino to offer a cloud-based version of iTunes. The system would reportedly allow users to remotely connect with a server and listen to their iTunes libraries without the need for an approved device or PC.

And it seems that Apple is not alone. Google is also believed to be working on a streaming music service of its own, and the rivals are working to get their service to the market first.

But according to Reuters, Apple is preparing to launch its music service, while Google's efforts are said to be stalling.

The launch of a cloud music service could only help Apple. The company currently dominates the downloaded music market and, even if a cloud platform was only marginally successful, at least the company is preserving its presence on the new platforms.