Google Introduces Comments in Search Results

Google has launched an experimental feature called “Notes” through Search Labs, allowing users to add their own annotations to search results. When this experimental mode is enabled, buttons for adding and viewing notes will appear below search results and under Discover articles in the Google app.

Once submitted, a note will appear “within a few minutes,” unless it is flagged for human review. When viewing annotations, they will be dynamically ranked based on the user’s query and the relevance of the note. Google has promised to implement algorithmic safeguards and manual moderation to filter out inappropriate comments.

Initially, notes will be available to users in the United States and India.

How the New Feature Works

The main idea behind this update is that if a user searches for something very specific, such as “all types of cake frostings,” another user with practical knowledge can add a note like: “For beginners, I’d recommend buttercream. It’s easy to make, and you can add berries for variety.”

Notes will be accessible directly below search results after the beta testing phase in Google Labs. This feature aims to add a new level of interaction, allowing users to learn from each other.

Follow Your Favorite Searches

Google also plans to make it easier to keep track of favorite search queries by adding a “Follow” button. This will be useful for those who don’t want to miss interesting updates or are looking for tips on specific topics, such as half-marathon training. By clicking the “Follow” button in search results, users will automatically see articles and videos related to their chosen topic in the “Discover” section on the Google app’s main page.

The company stated that it will not collect or share this data with advertisers or third parties.

The tracking feature will initially launch in English in the Google app and will also appear in the mobile versions of Chrome and Safari in the coming weeks.

Updates to the “Perspectives” Feature

Google also announced some updates to its “Perspectives” feature, which displays content from social networks and forums. The feature will now show more information about individual content creators, such as profile pictures or follower counts.