Google Local Search Leaves Beta

Google Local finally left beta in the U.S. and Canada on Thursday, offering local search results with integrated map information. Users can pull up nearby businesses blended with satellite imagery and overlaid driving directions from Google's index and Yellow Pages data.

"With today's launch of Google Local, users will be able to go to one location to find all the local and mapping information they need," said Marissa Mayer, director of Google's Consumer Web Products. "Whether it's directions to the nearest pharmacy or reviews of nearby dim sum restaurants, we will continue to develop innovative technologies that enrich our users' lives."