Google has officially removed its famous instant search feature, which automatically shows results as soon as you start typing the search term, even before hitting the enter button or clicking on the search icon. Instant search was introduced in 2010 by Marissa Mayer who was Vice President of search and user experience at that time and termed the instant search feature as “fundamental shift in search”.
“We launched Google Instant back in 2010 with the goal to provide users with the information they need as quickly as possible, even as they typed their searches on desktop devices. Since then, many more of our searches happen on mobile, with very different input and interaction and screen constraints. With this in mind, we have decided to remove Google Instant, so we can focus on ways to make Search even faster and more fluid on all devices.” A Google spokesperson said.
According to statistics, more than half the searches on Google are made on mobile as compared to desktops. Instant search isn’t very convenient on mobile screen due to the limited screen estate and trying to load results page on top of pop up keyboard isn’t a good user experience. The option to turn off instant search was available but now it has been removed completely.
The recommended search terms will show in the drop down menu as before but users have to hit enter to get the search results. What do you think about this recent development? Comment your views in the comments section below.
