Google has introduced a number of new updates to its search engine to improved the user experience, the company has posted on its blog. Here are the main new features:
Let’s say you’re training for your first half marathon, and you’ve come to Search looking for tips on getting in better running shape. Tap the “Follow” button in search results and you’ll automatically see articles and videos about marathon training on Discover, the homepage of the Google app. From Discover, you can jump right to the search results page to see more new-to-you content and perspectives related to what you follow, like a video demonstrating a training exercise.
If you have notifications turned on, we may update you if we find something particularly timely or important, like how to prepare for an upcoming race nearby. And you’re always in control of what you follow: You can easily update or unfollow your interests at any time.
As with all information on Search, Google will look to show the most helpful, relevant and reliable information possible when you follow a topic.
Google said that starting later this year, they’ll make it easier to find and visit favorite sites. For example, if you’ve searched for something a few times, like DIY instructions for a backyard project, and keep returning to the same web page, Google will recognize that and bring the site to the top of the search results page. As always, you can see which results are personalized and easily access personal settings by clicking on the three dots next to any web link.
Even more firsthand knowledge in Search
One of the best ways to get information that works for your specific needs is to find someone with firsthand experience. Google is introducing a few updates to make it easier for people to find and share their insights with others on Search.
This May, there will be new ways to find and explore diverse perspectives on Search in the Google app and mobile web. In the coming weeks, Google is bring the perspectives filter to desktop Search, so you can choose to exclusively see content from people on social media platforms, forums and other communities. New information on search results will highlights information about the individual creator — like their social handle, follower count or the popularity of their content — so it’s easier to find content from creators you care about.
Notes: A new experiment in Search Labs
Google is also introducing a new experiment in Search Labs to help people learn from the experiences of others on the web. With Notes, Google is exploring a new way to share tips and advice about web content, right on Search. Notes gives people a helpful layer of human insights on each Search result, working hand in hand with existing content on the web and making it more useful.
