Since Google Now arrived on iOS earlier this week, some users have complained the Google Search app addition is a huge drain on their handset battery life.
Due to Google Now’s access to the location data, some users say they have noticed a significant effect on battery life since installing the Google Search app update.
However, Google has released an official statement denying Google Now has any effect on iPhone battery.
“Reports that Google Now drains battery life are incorrect,” said Google in a statement. “We understand people’s concern about seeing the Location Services icon stay on when they use Google Now. Many apps that keep the icon on actually do drain the phone’s battery because they require very accurate location. (For example a navigation app has to run your GPS all the time to keep you from missing your turn.”
Launching as a new feature in the iOS Google Search app, Google Now is the search engine giant’s own voice controlled assistant that looks set to be a rival for Apple’s Siri.
“We extensively tested Google Now on iOS for months and didn’t see reports of significant battery impact – we would encourage you to try it in the Google Search app for a few days and we don’t expect you to see significant impact on your battery. If you are seeing a problem, please do tell us (just tap feedback in the app settings). We take user feedback very seriously.”
Originally an Android exclusive, Google Now is prized for its accuracy at providing data on the weather, local attractions, travel information in the form of Google Now cards.
Google further explained that Google Now is “built very differently” from other apps that hone in on the iPhone location services. The software uses “cell towers and Wi-Fi hotspots for much lower battery impact.”
Google’s annual conference is just around the corner, so here’s what to expect at Google I/O 2013.
Via: LifeHacker
