Baidu to launch mobile search app

Mon Nov 30 2009, 16:43 PM

Chinese search engine Baidu is launching a mobile app in response to the rapid growth of the Chinese mobile search market in a bid to outrival Google. The app, called the Baidu Palm, will come pre-installed on handsets through deals with manufacturers. It allows users to access Baidu's message board and online question and answer facilities as well as letting users upload pictures quickly.

Baidu's service already comes pre-loaded on 3G handsets via mobile operator China Unicom. China Telecom also offers Baidu's search engine services. Google's search engine is already available on Chinese smartphones via China Mobile, the world's biggest carrier in terms of subscribers. Baidu has nearly 70% of the Chinese search market, compared to Google's 20%.