Bing! Now for non-Verizon Android phones, too

November 11, 2010 | by Andrew Kameka

Bing Mobile for Android is now available on all four of the major U.S. carriers. When the app was first released in August, it was an exclusive for Verizon customers. Now AT&T, Sprint, and T-Mobile customers can see what all the hype – positive and negative – is about.

Bing brings a good-looking search interface that includes a daily image with clickable hotspots. In honor of Veteran’s Day, today’s image includes tidbits about the Memorial Wall at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Users can filter by Images, News, Maps, and Local results. There’s also a 4×1 homescreen widget.

Microsoft has a deal with Verizon that has made Bing the default search and map application on several of its major smartphones, and that trend will continue with the Samsung Continuum. Microsoft has expanded its reach as part of an effort to grow Bing on as many platforms as possible. Some may scoff at seeing Microsoft on “Google’s operating system” but it never hurts to have options. (Yes, I’m aware Verizon customers on 2.1 don’t have option to make Google the default).

Search the Android Market for “Bing” and it should appear.

[Bing]

android apps, bing, Microsoft, search

3 Comments

Usman said: On November 12, 2010

Bing should be banned from the market until Microsoft allows Verizon to let their customers install Google on their phones.

Jeroen said: On November 13, 2010

So when will Google search for Verizon be available?.
Releasing phones without google search is one thing, allowing Verizon to actually block it from the market is something I cannot believe Google is tolerating.

Andrew Kameka said: On November 14, 2010

It's not actually being blocked by Microsoft. The Google search integration through the Market requires Android 2.2, and the Android phones with Bing currently don't support 2.2. Once Froyo comes to the Fascinate and others, it will be easier to replace.

Android Apps and News

Thoughts on the Samsung Galaxy S 4 and Unpacked 2013

Diztronic case review for LG Nexus 4

Why I decided to purchase the Nexus 4

Samsung Galaxy Note 2 - Verizon Remix Version

HTC DROID DNA Review

Samsung Galaxy Note II Review

Android News