"Google Eliminates Extra Search Box: What It Means for Your SEO Strategy"

Google Discontinues Sitelinks Search Box

Source: The Verge

Key Changes Coming on November 21, 2024

• Google is removing the sitelinks search box from search results, a feature that allowed users to search within specific websites directly from Google’s search page.
• This decision is made in light of declining usage over the past few years.

Background of the Sitelinks Search Box

• Introduced over ten years ago, the sitelinks search box aimed to enhance user experience by providing a direct way to search within recognized websites.
• Despite its initial utility, Google found that the feature was not widely used in recent years.

Impact on Users

• After the removal date, users will no longer see this feature in any language or region.
• While some might miss it, many users, including the article's author, reported rarely utilizing the feature.

Broader Trends in Google's Search Engine Updates

• This change is part of a series of modifications as Google shifts its focus towards AI advancements in its search algorithms.
• The removal is seen as a simplification of search results, aligning with ongoing changes within the search team at Google.