Google is trialling a service that links taxi firms with passengers via the web.

Google Ride Finder uses the existing Google Maps pages and links them with taxi firms that register with the company. Users can then see the locations of available cabs in real time on the website and ring for a booking.

"If you're like me, you use a mix of recommendations from friends, the phone book, or standing on the corner with your hand in the air (and hoping it isn't raining) when you need to find a taxi, limousine or shuttle service," said Russell Shoji, business development manager at the search firm.

"With Google Ride Finder, you can tell us where you want to find a ride and we'll show you the actual positions of participating vehicles in that area, along with a phone number you can use to contact the fleet operator."

The service is currently only running in 11 of America's largest cities, but Shoji said that the plan is to extend it to all locations as soon as possible. Taxi firms are being urged to contact Google to join up to the service.