More New Google Features

Google quietly introduced a few new features this month.

I think the most useful of these is the Search By Numbers feature. With it you can enter a UPS or FedEx tracking number, Patent number, FAA airplane registration number, or a FCC equipment ID number in google's standard search box. The FCC equipment ID is very useful as you can track down the manufacture of almost any electronic circuit board since most must have this number on the product somewhere.

Also introduced is Travel Conditions. Use it to see delays and weather conditions at any particular airport. Just type the airport's three letter code followed by the word "airport." For example, San Francisco International Airport updates can be found by searching for "sfo airport.

Lastly, Froogle Results. When you Google search for any product name you'll be shown a product search box at the top of your search results. The cool part about it is its not an advertisement. You'll also have an opportunity to jump right to Froogle with your current search.