On Thursday Google announced an easier way for Windows Mobile users to find the nearest restaurant with the release of Search with My Location.
Previously, when you went to google.com from your phone and performed a local search, the results were tailored to the last location you entered. Now, taking advantage of the Gears Geolocation API, Search with My Location approximates your position using the same Cell ID technology used in Google Maps for Mobile.
So, say if you're on a hot date--or even not-so hot, OK the amount of hotness doesn't matter right now--and you've decided on sushi, but at the last minute your date reveals to you that he or she is allergic to not only fish, but rice as well. After arguing discussing why this was not made clear earlier, you break out your trusty Blackjack II, search Google for pizza--you're obviously fed up at this point--and receive a list of local pizzerias in your current area. Or maybe just businesses thought to sell pizza. Actually it's unclear how precise the technology is. Does it search for online menus or just go by name?
Anyway, restaurants are not the only thing you'll have the option to search for. By typing "weather" into the search, you'll receive the local forecast as well.
Google states that "We take your privacy seriously and have designed Search with My Location so that it doesn't associate your location with any personally identifiable information, even if you are logged in." According to Google, it won't send your location until you opt in and you can always opt out.
For a list of devices that support Search with My Location check here. Don't fret too much if your phone isn't listed since Google is working with vendors to add support for future phones.
The service is only available in the U.S. and U.K. initially. If you'd like to try it out, just visit google.com on your compatible phone and click the My Location link under the search box. You can check out a tutorial video--complete with a lame acoustic guitar--for the service here.