Yahoo Inc. has followed Google into the mobile-search arena, launching a service that allows wireless users to query its search engine over their handsets.
Yahoo Search, which launched Wednesday, enables consumers to access conventional Web results, such as local business listings as well as maps and images, said Dan Rosensweig, chief operating officer for Yahoo. Rosensweig announced the service on the final day of the CTIA Wireless I.T. & Entertainment show.
“The launch of Yahoo Search for mobile is a crucial step in providing consumers with a new and powerful point of access to our search products,” Rosensweig said. “We are empowering consumers to get what they want, how they want it, when they want it and where they want it.”
Google rolled out a short message service earlier this month that provides specifically tailored content from its search engine for wireless users. Google’s service is available with the top five U.S. mobile carriers; Yahoo Search is being offered to subscribers with AT&T Wireless Services Inc., Cingular Wireless and Sprint PCS.
