Google Introduces ‘Web’ Search Filter to Display Classic Text Links as AI Features Evolve

As Google transforms for the AI era with enhanced search results, it is introducing an innovative “Web” filter that allows users to narrow their search to text-based links. Positioned at the top of the search results page, this filter will enable users to easily access only text links, just as they can currently filter by images, videos, news, or shopping.

This announcement was made on Tuesday via a post on X during the Google I/O developer conference, where the company revealed significant advancements, including AI-organized search results and expanded AI overviews.

“We’ve launched a new ‘Web’ filter that displays only text-based links, similar to filtering for other types of search results like images or videos,” noted Google SearchLiaison on Twitter. “The filter will show at the top of the results page or under the ‘More’ option and is rolling out today.” pic.twitter.com/tIUy9LNCy5— Google SearchLiaison (@searchliaison) May 14, 2024

According to Google, users will find the new “Web” filter either prominently at the top of search results or within the “More” category, depending on their search query.

This introduction acknowledges a common user desire: sometimes, individuals simply want direct access to text-based web page links—the traditional blue links that often take a backseat to Google’s informative Knowledge Panels and evolving AI features.

The Google SearchLiaison X account explained, “We’ve added this feature in response to feedback from users who prefer seeing links to web pages when searching for longer-format documents or when using devices with limited internet connectivity. This option is for those who appreciate viewing text-based results separately from other search features. Enjoy!”

On mobile devices, Google plans to display the new “Web” filter alongside other filters by default, eliminating the need for users to navigate to the “More” menu. On desktop, the platform will showcase filters deemed most relevant to the user’s search inquiry.

This feature is expected to roll out globally over the next couple of days, according to Google.

The introduction of a “Web” filter may spark discussions, especially among the SEO community, which has invested considerable effort in optimizing links to secure top placements on Google’s search results page. However, some argue that such SEO tactics have compromised the platform’s utility compared to its early days, when the PageRank algorithm was not heavily manipulated.

Ultimately, this development signals a significant shift in how Google perceives the future of search. Rather than merely surfacing website links, the platform may evolve to focus on delivering a variety of content forms or AI-generated responses, complete with cited sources for users wishing to explore further. The long-term impact of these changes on industries reliant on website visits remains unclear.

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