Google releases new Africa app to beat sluggish Internet speeds

The new app reduces the amount of data needed to display search results by 40% and allows previous searches to be accessed offline.

Google is releasing an app in Africa that will help Internet users overcome obstacles such as the lack of high-speed connectivity and the cost of data on the continent. 

The release of Google Go is the US technology giant’s latest attempt to extend its reach into emerging markets such as sub-Saharan Africa, where Facebook Inc is also making inroads. The Alphabet Inc unit has laid fibre-optic cable on the continent, eased access to cheaper Android phones and trained a workforce in digital skills.