Microsoft Offers Bing iPhone App

Microsoft is pushing its Bing search engine pretty hard into the mobile space. It already has distribution deals with the likes of Verizon Wireless, but now it is stepping into an interesting new realm. Microsoft has made a free Bing application for the iPhone.The application hit the iPhone Apps Store yesterday and can be downloaded directly to the iPhone if users so wish.

What does the Bing application do? Well, Microsoft talks up its Voice Search a lot. The Voice Search function has been integrated into the mapping application, and can pinpoint places on a map if requested. It also provides driving directions.

Because Bing will tap into the iPhone's GSP, it knows where users are. That means it will do its best to return locally relevant search results when you're seeking places such as restaurants, banks, or theaters. Bing will then provide either driving or walking directions to those places.

Microsoft notes that Seadragon technology is behind its mapping application, which lets users swipe through directions, pinch to zoom in/out, as well as pan around maps.

Other features include: daily image from Bing.com; tips and tricks on the home page; a "locate me" functionality; the ability to add pushpins and save locations; and the ability to show multiple locations on a single map.

Bing is already available for BlackBerries, Windows Mobile phones, and from some mobile browsers. Bing for the iPhone is a free download.