Google’s search goes local

Google Inc. rolled out a new way for users to search for content.

The search engine giant this week completed a worldwide launch of local search results in Maps. You can now type in a generic name such as bank or pharmacy without specifying a location, and Google will automatically return results in your area.

How do we guess your location? In most cases, we match your IP address to a broad geographical location, Google engineers Jenn Taylor and Jim Muller wrote in a blog post.

You can also specify your likely location using the 'Change location' link on the top-right corner, above the map.

Users can also type in a street address like 120 42nd Street, without specifying the city and Google results will show you results based on your location.