Google Goggles for Android (version 1.3) is now available for download. The latest incarnation is smarter and faster than previous versions with almost instant barcode scanning. Even better, Goggles can now recognize print ads in magazines and newspapers. Did we mention it can solve Sodoku puzzles faster than 2009 Sodoku national champion Tammy McLeod?
The bread and butter of Google Goggles has been scanning barcodes to learn more about a product. The latest version builds upon that foundation, but with much faster response — Google claims “almost instantly”. Beyond the QR reading capabilities, Goggles can now scan print ads in magazine and newspapers.
Here’s how it works: Simply open Google Goggles and take a picture of an ad from a magazine. Goggles will recognize the print ad and return web search results about the product or brand. Before you go testing it out on your vintage magazine, the print ad recognition works on major U.S. magazine and newspapers from August 2010 onwards.
In addition to print and newspaper ad recognition, Goggles version 1.3 for Android can recognize puzzles and provide answers. In the video demonstration above, you can see the Google Nexus S with Google Goggles beat 2009 Sodoku national champion Tammy McLeod in a matter of seconds.
Google Goggles 1.3 with improved bar code scanning is available for download in Android Market. Recognition of print ads and Sudoku solver is now enabled for the Google Goggles app on Android, as well as the Goggles component of the Google Mobile App on iPhone.
Out Now | Android Market | Free
