NEWS  News  November 16, 2023  Reading time: ~1 minute)

Max (RS editor)

Google has introduced a revamped personalized search experience, unveiling a suite of features designed to provide users with more relevant information directly in their search results. Key additions include a new "Follow" button in Google Search, allowing users to subscribe to specific topics and receive tailored content updates. Brad Kelle, Senior Director of Engineering at Google Search, explained that this feature enables users to stay informed on topics of interest, with the option to receive notifications via the Google App.

To subscribe, users simply click the "Follow" button during a search, receiving updates in their home feed and upon revisiting the search. Notably, this feature is initially launching in US English search results within the Google App and mobile search results. While it excludes "sensitive" topics, users can easily unfollow and unsubscribe from selected topics.

Google is also enhancing its search results ranking by prioritizing frequently visited sites. This personalized ranking feature aims to display content from regularly visited sites more prominently, tailoring search results to individual user preferences over an extended period. Unlike the topic-specific Follow button, this ranking feature operates independently.

Moreover, Google is expanding the Perspectives feature, enabling users to gain insights from various sources such as social media platforms, discussion forums, and blog posts. Originally launched on mobile, Perspectives is set to extend to desktop in the US in the coming weeks. The update also includes the presentation of creators' details directly in search results, showcasing social media accounts, follower counts, and more.

In summary, Google's latest updates focus on refining the search experience through personalized content, enhanced topic following, and improved visibility for content creators, underscoring the company's commitment to delivering tailored and diverse search results.

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