Microsoft announced on Thursday that it has started rolling out significant updates for its Bing app for Android and iOS. The update is more prominent in the Android version of the app as some of the newly introduced features were already offered on the previous version of the iOS app.
The apps are now more focused on ‘finding’ and ‘doing’ stuff faster and easier than ever before. Comparing the new versions of the app on each platform, we can easily note that the apps are now almost parallel to each other and the set of features is the same.
The app now includes a barcode scanner, a nearby gas station locator, a new tool to gain and redeem deals/coupons (exclusive to iOS, for now), and a lot more.
Let’s look at all the new features one at a time.
Barcode Reader and Price Comparison
The new Bing app comes with an integrated barcode reader which can be used to scan any product’s barcode and get details about it on-the-go. Not just this, the app also provides you with price comparisons with similar products from other retailers.
To use this feature, launch the barcode scanner by long-pressing the search icon and selecting the camera that pops out and point your camera at the barcode of a product you want to look up. The service will match the information with keys in the database and if any matches are found, it will return prices and customer ratings from major retailers, including Amazon, Walmart, Target and others.
Microsoft says that you can access the scanner on iPhone 6S/6S Plus via the new 3D touch technology to force-touch the Bing app icon and select the ‘Scan Barcode’ quick action. Other iOS users can access the barcode from the ‘Deals’ menu. Android users can long-press the search icon and select the camera that pops-out.
GasBuddy
The apps on both the platforms can now help you find the nearest and most affordable fuel stops from Bing Local. This service comes with the integration of GasBuddy into the Bing app. To use this feature, just search for ‘gas’ or go to ‘Near Me’ and select ‘Gas’ bubble from the places-near-me carousel.
Coupons and Deals
The Bing app for the iPhone gets an extra feature with this update that allows you to browse deals directly from the homepage of the app. You’ll get updates automatically without any extra effort. All you have to do is follow the instructions to redeem them from the deal/coupon provider. Microsoft said that this last feature will be ported to Android soon.
The app is now available on the iTunes App Store and Google Play.
