Google updates iGoogle for iPhone and Android handsets

Google promises faster mobile browsing with its iGoogle updates

Google has announced a new beta version of its iGoogle mobile offering for Apple's iPhone and iPod touch devices, as well as its own Android-based handsets.

Google mobile software engineers Dan Zivkovic and Zhen Wang said in a blog post that most users search on the handsets as a sort of "information snack ".

"That's why iGoogle is so convenient on mobile devices. When you're waiting in line, you can check iGoogle on your phone for a quick 'info snack' even in areas with mediocre network coverage," they noted.

The improved version of iGoogle adds common elements such as tabs and quick access to frequently used gadgets, which should further speed up the experience, according to the engineers.

"Many of you have told us that you wanted to use more of your iGoogle gadgets on your phone. You wanted to see your tabs, too. We read your blog comments and forum posts and put your requests at the top of our to-do list," they explained.

The new version of iGoogle comes in 38 languages, and can be accessed by visiting igoogle.com in a mobile browser and selecting 'Try the new Mobile iGoogle'.

The mobile version of Google's browser has had its own additions this week, including improvements to the auto-complete tools and new keyboard shortcuts for Android devices.

"We'd like to introduce the Iterative Webapp, a series where we will continue to release features for Gmail for mobile. Today: Faster address auto-completion and keyboard shortcuts," said Shyam Sheth, product manager for Google Mobile, in a blog post.

The improvements to the address auto-complete tools mean that users will have to type in fewer letters before the relevant contact information is presented. The firm said that this was made possible through the study of previous searches.

Android users will also benefit from access to common Gmail keyboard shortcuts used to navigate their inboxes.

"For example, if you're reading an email you can press 'u' to return to the inbox or 'n' to move to the next conversation," Google said.