Like AOL's traditional desktop search, Mobile Search links to AOL properties such as AIM Mail, Moviefone, MapQuest, AOL CityGuide, and AOL News. Web search functionality is once again provided by Google.

The Mobile Search beta user interface has been designed so a user need only tap on a single box (see below). Results will then be delivered, divided into categories such as "Local," "Finance," "News," "Images," and "Web."


The AOL Mobile Search user interface is simplified
On many phones, however, these results will be divided over multiple screens, requiring plenty of scrolling and clicking (below, left). AOL says Windows Mobile users can avoid this, thanks to a special enhanced version of the Mobile Search beta that takes advantage of Pocket IE, and displays relevant content under tabs (below, right).

AOL Mobile Search results on typical browsers (left) vs. on Pocket IE (right)

Additionally, notes Farhan Memon, a senior product manager for AOL Mobile Search, "Windows Mobile powered cell phones typically have larger screens, so for each search we're able to display more items on each screen."

AOL says the tabbed format organizes content more efficiently and makes search easier to navigate. The AOL Mobile Search beta also reportedly integrates Click2Call features, allowing users to tap on any phone number listed in the results and initiate a call.

The AOL Mobile Search beta is available now by pointing a mobile phone's Web browser at wap.aol.com.

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