Google has announced the launch of a new iPad app called Google Catalogs, which brings users access to a variety of popular catalogs to one place, digitally. Businesses that offer catalogs can get their own added as well.

“For years, shoppers have enjoyed flipping through glossy print catalogs to be inspired, discover new trends and find great products,” says Kinnari Jhaveri, Strategic Partner Development Manager on Google’s Commerce Team. “Today, mobile technologies can make catalog shopping more engaging, social and creative.”

Google says, with Google Catlogs, you can:

• Interact: Zoom in to see products up close, tap on tags to learn more about an item or, in some catalogs, view inspiring photo albums and videos.
• Find products in nearby stores: When an item catches your eye, instantly find it in a store near you or tap “Buy on Website” to visit the merchant online.
• Express your creativity: Create a collage of your favorite catalog pages and products. If you need inspiration, you can check out collages created by others.
• Share with friends: Email a product or collage to all your shopping buddies.
• Get instant access to new catalogs: Add catalogs to your Favorites and get notified each time a new issue arrives.
• Discover new products and brands: Search for products within or across multiple catalogs to find exactly what you’re looking for.

Launch partners include Neiman Marcus, Williams-Sonoma, Sephora, Urban Outfitters, Macy’s, Alloy, Anthropologie, Athleta, Bare Escentuals, Bare Necessities, Bergdorf Goodman, Bloomingdales, Boden, Brooks Brothers, CB2, Create&Barrel, Delia’s, Eddie Bauer, Fossil, Free People, Gump’s, Horchow, L.L. Bean, The Land of Nod, Lands’ End, Nordstrom, Patagonia, Pottery Barn, Red Envelope, Ross+Simons, Ralph Lauren Rugby, Saks Fifth Avenue, Sundance, Tea, Ugg, Venus, and West Elm.

Google calls Google Catalogs a “greener way to shop,” as users can subscribe to paperless versions of catalogs, and be notified as soon as new issues are available.

If you put out any catalogs, you may be interested to know that there is an application, where you can apply to have yours considered for Google Catalogs. This can be print or digital.

Google Catalogs is currently available for free download in Apple’s App Store. Google says a version for Android Tablets is on the way.