Google Applications Updated for Android 2.2

In the last few days, Google have released some updates for applications that run on the latest Android operating system, Android 2.2, also known by the codename FroYo.

The first app brings Voice Actions to Android, allowing you to interact with your mobile device in the most natural manner, by using voice commands. The Voice Actions app is activated by tapping the microphone icon which is sited next to the Google search box, and then speaking a command, with various commands possible including options to send a text message, call a contact, compose an email, listen to music, browse the web and use various mapping features such as navigation, directions and getting a map of your current location.

Google have also updated their Android search app, which also allows you to browse via voice commands, and will now offer suggestions based on your search request. Voice Actions is currently available for Android 2.2 devices, and is so far only set to work with US English voice requests, so UK users may have a few issues using Voice Actions. Updates for other English variances and other languages are expected in the coming weeks. If you have an Android 2.2 device, then you can download the applications for Voice Actions from the Android Market, or by scanning the QR codes below:

Another update from Google concerns integration between the Chrome desktop browser and your Android device. Google's Chrome to Phone allows you to send links and other details from your desktop or laptop directly to your handset. If you happen to be browsing a particular site and you want it on your phone, Chrome to Phone will be the quickest way to synchronise the two devices.

Uses for Chrome to Phone could be for sending YouTube links to your handset, or Maps, web pages, and so on. To get Chrome to Phone you need to install the extension to your Chrome browser, and then download the application from the Android Market. As with the Voice Actions app, Chrome 2 Phone will only work on Android 2.2 devices, but if you want to experience something similar, there is always URL Pusher available. This also allows you to send the URL of the web page you are browsing at the time, and works on a wider variety of Android handsets, as well as with other browsers, including Internet Explorer, Opera and Firefox, as well as Chrome. URL Pusher can be downloaded from the Android Market.