You can now book an Ola or Uber ride directly from Google Search in India

In an attempt to make commuting more convinient, Google today announced that users in India can now find directions and choose from a menu of ride service options straight from the Google Search app or through the mobile search browser.

The feature was made available on the latest version of Google Maps earlier this year with a dedicated tab with information for cab services, in addition to the existing driving, public transport, or walking options. However, with this integration, commuters can ask for directions and book ride services directly from Google Search app or browser. A tab will present fare estimates and pickup times for ride services, Uber and Ola.

Choosing the best transit option can be a task at times, our aim is to help users simplify their everyday travel. With this, users will be able to order, explore and make quick comparisons about the best estimated taxi fare directly from Google Search results on their mobile.

– Sanket Gupta, Program Manager, Google

For specific requests like ‘Taxi to Bangalore airport’, the app/browser will direct the user to select a service and automatically open the app to book the ride in a single tap. If the ride-hailing app is not installed, Google Search will show a link to install the app.

As yet, have you used Google Maps to book a ride, or is the first impulse is to fire the Ola or Uber app, and book one? Do you think the Google Search integration will change the behavior? Let us know in the comments!