A method and system are provided for offsetting network latencies in an incremental processing of a search query entered by a user of a device having connectivity to a remote server over a network. The search query (step 800:T) is directed at identifying an item from a set of items. In accordance with the method and system, data expected to be of interest to the user is stored in a local memory associated with the device. Upon receiving a key entry or a browse action entry of the search query from the user, the system searches the local memory associated with the device to identify results therein matching the key entry or browse action entry. The results identified in the local memory are displayed on a display associated with the device (step 804a). Also upon receiving a key entry or a browse action entry of the search query from the user, the system sends the search query to the remote server and retrieves results from the remote server matching the key entry or browse action entry. The results from the remote server are merged with the results from the local memory for displaying on the display. The process is repeated for additional characters or browse actions entered by the user when he or she does not find the desired item on the display.