Google Catalogs iPad app offers tablet fix for US shopaholics

Retailers including Macy's, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom and Urban Outfitters on board, with Android version to come.

Google has launched a new iPad app designed to help US shoppers browse their favourite stores' catalogues on their tablet. Google Catalogs went live yesterday on the App Store.

Google has partnered with a number of US retailers for the app, which lets shoppers zoom in on product photos, and find out which local stores are stocking those products (or, indeed, buy them online on the device). Social features to share products with friends are included, and the app includes the ability to search for products across several catalogues at once.

Partners at launch include Anthropologie, Bare Escentuals, Bergdorf Goodman, Crate and Barrel, L.L. Bean, Lands’ End, Macy’s, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Pottery Barn, Saks Fifth Avenue, Sephora, Sundance, Tea Collection, Urban Outfitters and Williams-Sonoma.

What, no Android tablet app? Google Commerce strategic partner development manager Kinnari Jhaveri says that's coming soon in a blog post to announce the new app.

"For years, shoppers have enjoyed flipping through glossy print catalogs to be inspired, discover new trends and find great products," they write. "Today, mobile technologies can make catalog shopping more engaging, social and creative."