Google Offers Mobile Assist

Google(GOOG Quote - Cramer on GOOG - Stock Picks) expanded its popular local-search function to mobile devices Tuesday, opening the door to a potential new stream of ad revenue.

People who have XHTML-enabled Web browsers on their mobile phones or handheld devices can type a business or address into the stripped-down search page, which features a "what" box and a "where" box. Results deliver a tiny map and phone number. Telegrammic driving directions are also available for anyone who gets lost en route.

Jonathan Rosenberg, Google's vice president of product management, said in a statement that the new search function strips away "the hassle of referring to paper maps, reference guides or often-outdated directories."

Other local search functions exist for mobile devices, but often there are fees involved. Google's search allows any displayed phone number to be dialed for free.

Not only does the development inch Google toward its goal of making needed information available anytime and anywhere, but also it creates a new platform for advertising revenue.

The mobile local search is in beta -- that is, not exactly ready for prime time and sponsored links -- and Google didn't say how it might monetize the new feature.

In recent trading, shares of Google were up 42 cents to $193.65.