14 DAY TRIAL // Numerous iOS device owners using the latest version of the Google Search app have discovered that the newly included Google Now service is draining their batteries fast.
A location-aware service, Google Now constantly talks to its servers, even when the app is in the background with the customer using another app.
“To provide up-to-the-minute information, Google Now turns on Location Services. Even though the icon stays on, the app has minimal battery impact,” reads a memo on the app’s iTunes page.
But that’s not the experience shared by numerous customers who didn’t hesitate to leave a negative comment (review) on the app’s iTunes Store page.
In its notice, Google adds, “The app doesn’t turn on the GPS. Instead, it receives passive updates from nearby cell towers and WIFI hot spots.”
“If your battery is running low, the app pauses location updates. The app stays asleep unless your device moves a long distance.”
However, the search giant does note that there’s a chance some customers will see an impact on battery life.
If that’s you, Google says you should report your experience to them by tapping the feedback button in the app’s settings.
Alternately, Google says “You can also turn this feature on and off as you like in the privacy section of the app settings.”
Another potential fix is to turn off Location Reporting, which prevents the app from talking to towers while not in use.
A more reliable solution is to switch off the iOS Location Services altogether, but that basically cancels the new functionality included in Google Search 3.0.
Still, the high number of complaints found both on Apple’s App Store and Twitter suggests Google might need to release a patch to address the battery drain bugs.
Also worth noting is that Google Search 3.0.0, which includes the new Google Now feature for Apple customers, requires at least iOS 5.0 to run.