You've probably looked for something on Google Search, only to find that the top five results are news, knowledge panels, and images before getting to the link you actually want to click. Sometimes this is useful, which is why Google does it, but sometimes, all you want is a simple, text-based search result. For some reason, that wasn't an option on Google Search before, but now it's finally being added.

In a move that echoes the early days of internet search, Google has launched a new "Web" filter that simplifies search results down to the essentials: text-based links. This new feature comes in response to user feedback, catering to those who prefer a clutter-free search experience or have specific needs like finding long-form articles or using devices with limited bandwidth. All you need to do is go into the search engine's many filters, look for the filter called "Web," and that's it—you'll see all text-based search results that are relevant to your search. This is useful for when you want to find a link to a website and you don't want to see any more fluff on top. It's as no-nonsense as it can possibly get.

Google Search screenshot for "nfl 2024" results in web mode, with just links and link descriptions.

The "Web" filter will be globally available within the next few days, appearing alongside other filters at the top of the results page or under the "More" option. On mobile devices, all filters, including "Web," will typically be displayed. Desktop users will see dynamically generated filters based on relevance, with the option to access additional filters, including "Web," under the "More" section.

Google has been talking non-stop about new AI features and the future of Google Search actually seems like it will take a different direction entirely with generative AI integration, so if you're not really convinced by all that, this is certainly a fresh gasp of air. It will also probably become an essential feature as the Google Search experience will almost certainly transform over the course of the next few years as AI becomes more commonplace. Make sure to give the new filter a spin when you get a chance.

Source: Google