Google connects desktop search

Google Desktop 3 automatically transfers information between computers

Google has unveiled a updated version of its Google Desktop tool that will automatically transfer information between computers. 

Google Desktop version 3 allows users to search and access information from any computer that runs the software, a feature that Google refers to as Search Across Computers.

A user could, for instance, access a personal file from his work PC or share information between computers in different rooms in a house.

"You can search across multiple computers to find your information. You don't have to worry about where it lives; it's available anywhere you are," explained Kan Liu, product manager for Google Desktop, on the company blog. 

The Search Across Computers feature requires the application to transmit copies of indexed files to the Google Desktop servers, the company noted in the privacy policy for the product, which may remain stored for up to 60 days after the software is uninstalled.

Google Desktop 3 also offers an updated version of the Google Sidebar introduced in August.

The update adds new peer-to-peer features, allowing a user to send items directly to a friend's sidebar, such as the weather forecast or an interesting news story. Users can also play games such as tic-tac-toe.

Google Desktop Search 3 is currently in beta. The free application is available for download here.