Google announced yesterday the release of the updated iOS Google search app. It brings the "OK Google" prompt to search handsfree with the app plus a lot more. It has much better Google Now reminders, as well as some bugs, as we will cover.
Here are the new features:
(1) Notifications - When there’s important stuff that you need to know right now, Google will now automatically send you a notification. For example, while I was busy getting my son ready this morning, a notification appeared on my lock screen telling me that I should leave for his dentist appointment right away because of a traffic jam.
(2) Reminders - You can now easily set reminders for yourself, and Google will even notify you when you're near the location for that particular task. So if you say "OK Google, remind me to mail the checks when I get home," you'll get a notification as soon as your house pulls into view.
(3) Cards - You no longer need to comb through email to find an upcoming flight’s boarding pass or the tickets to your next movie or concert. The updated app will simply show you a Google Now card with your tickets when you arrive at the theatre or airport.
(4) OK Google - when the app is open on your iPhone (4s and up) and iPad (2 and up), just say “OK Google” to ask any question out loud and get instant answers spoken back.
But there are some issues.
(1) US users are being associated as outside of the US and thus not able to use the app, as reported in this thread.
(2) The OK Google is not picking up the voice for some iOS users as reported in this thread.
Here is a video of the new features:
Forum discussion at Google Web Search Help & Google+.
