Google has adapted to social media’s topography.
On mobile devices, its search results will now be displayed in one continuous scroll, rather than on multiple pages.
According to Google’s announcement today, the new design is more “intuitive” for users and encourages curiosity in our Information Age. Google notes in a tweet however that “continuous scroll” does not mean “infinite scroll.” This new design will just allow users to view the equivalent of four full pages before a “See More” button appears.
Other key aspects of the redesign: Google decided to use larger text, strip back on design elements, and only use color to highlight significant information, all to make the search results easier to consume. Design lead Aileen Cheng told The Keyword that a sense of “approachability” and “familiarity” were goals in this new take, leaning into rounder imagery.
This follows in TikTok and Instagram’s footsteps, geared towards users who spend more time online exploring “open-ended questions” and finding new ideas rather than searching for a specific resource. Google says that now most people use the Internet like this anyway, assessing multiple options before clicking on a link.
Some worry this will increase their screen time, as Google was once a refuge from “doomscrolling.” On the other hand, this could be a crucial development on Google’s part. According to Pew Research, 63% of U.S. Adults use search engines, Google included, to find their news. However, a close 53% use social media, and 42% of young adults between the ages of 18 and 29 prefer social media for news updates. Changing how Google is used could be attractive for younger generations.
The rollout will be gradual, says Google, so if your mobile device isn’t showing endless results yet, the redesign is on its way.
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