Google and HP Discussing Google Now Assistant for Enterprises: Report

Google reportedly is in discussion with HP about the possible use of its Google Now virtual assistant as a search tool for corporate data, and may with the offering take on Apple-IBM's enterprise mobility partnership.

The search giant's Android unit has been discussing a partnership with HP for about a year now, according to three people familiar with Google's plan. The company wants to make Google Now an integrated voice-search tool for various information like financial data, product inventory, and more, reported The Information (via BusinessInsider), on Wednesday.

"The idea is for employees to be able to ask their Android device for company information such as financial data or product inventory information in the same way they do routine personal searches for weather, traffic or restaurant locations. Google search doesn't currently offer any such integration with corporate databases and software applications, but it's an area Google has looked at as it tries to chip away at the iPhone's lead among business customers," notes The Information.

It was also reported that HP had also shown interest in building a Nexus smartphone for businesses consumers with advanced encryption features, however, the idea was rejected by Andy Rubin, then-SVP of Mobile at Google.

The report adds that despite being in talks with HP for around a year, Google isn't very interested in the deal - however, HP with its enterprise experience may just be the ideal partner for an attempt to take on the Apple-IBM partnership. Notably, HP is said to have been working on a Siri-like platform for enterprise customers internally nicknamed 'Enterprise Siri'.

HP had reportedly discussed the Enterprise Siri idea with Apple before the Cupertino-giant announced its partnership IBM to sell iPhone and iPad loaded with corporate applications in July.

Both Apple and IBM had then made a joint statement, saying, "the landmark partnership aims to redefine the way work will get done, address key industry mobility challenges and spark true mobile-led business change. [..] Apple and IBM's shared vision for this partnership is to put in the hands of business professionals everywhere the unique capabilities of iPads and iPhones with a company's knowledge, data, analytics and workflows."