Though Nokia (NYSE:NOK) is the world leader in mobile phones, its 770 Internet Tablet ironically lacks any voice capability. The 770 sports a keyboard, handwriting recognition, and wireless Internet access, but it's kept users otherwise mute -- until now.

Nokia has entered a deal to use Google's (NASDAQ:GOOG) Talk technology on the 770, allowing users to trade instant messages or make voice over Internet protocols through the device or an attached headset.

According to PC World editor Harry McCracken, "The 770 is an interesting device in some ways, but it's not a phone, and it's at most an intriguing first draft of a new kind of gadget that bridges the gap between a full-blown PC and a cell phone."

Since its launch about a year ago, the 770 has had trouble gaining traction. Making voice capability standard should help improve sales, and having Google as a partner does bring a certain amount of cachet.

The 770 has another problem, though: Wi-Fi wireless Internet access is not universal. If you are in an area without Wi-Fi coverage, the 770 is mostly useless.

Interestingly enough, Google's trying to solve this as well. The company is teaming with Earthlink (NASDAQ:ELNK) to provide Wi-Fi access throughout San Francisco. Rumors have persisted for months that Google has long-term plans to spread similar access nationwide.

The search giant is taking its first steps toward becoming as dominant in the mobile world as it has become on desktop computers. So far, Google's mobile strategy has been lackluster. But with its great technology and branding abilities, it's having little trouble getting the attention of major companies like Nokia, Motorola (NYSE:MOT), and Research In Motion (NASDAQ:RIMM).

As mobile computing's popularity and use continues to flourish, Google's move to embrace mobility seems like another smart strategy from the Internet's newest top player.

Want to talk tech with other growth-minded Fools? Join David Gardner's hunt for great stocks with world-changing potential with a free 30-day trial to Motley Fool Rule Breakers.

Fool contributor Tom Taulli does not own shares mentioned in this article.