What you need to know
- Google is ending its Notes experiment, where users could add personal notes to search results.
- The feature allowed users to enrich search results with additional information, visible to others.
- Launched last November for a small group, the feature didn't gain enough traction for a wider release and will be discontinued at the end of July.
Google is ending an experiment it started a few months ago in which you'll be able to add your own unique notes to search results.
The annotations feature functioned as a simple crowdsourced knowledge base for search results. It allowed users to add additional information to specific web pages. These added data, called “Notes,” were visible to other users, helping them find better information.
It started with a limited group of users last November.The feature didn't seem to gain enough popularity to be rolled out more widely. According to 9a5GoogleThis experimental feature will be discontinued at the end of July.
Google reiterates that Search Labs is a space for bold experiments with the search experience and admits that not all of these trials will lead to wider implementation, the report said.
“We're excited to continue testing new ways to connect people with authentic, relatable voices, and look forward to applying some of our learnings from Notes to future product experiences,” a Google representative told 9to5.
In its statement, Google acknowledged users' interest in sharing knowledge with each other based on their own research. The Notes experiment was a test to support this on the search platform.
Google Search Labs serves as a testing ground for various experiments. New features are added periodically, while some are phased out gradually. So the closure of Notes is just part of Google's ongoing process of testing and refining ideas.
Or get rid of them altogether.
If you're curious about the Notes experiment, you still have a chance to try it out. The feature will be available until the end of July. You can access it via Laboratory search portal.
If you were part of the experiment, you will be able to view and download your notes until the end of the month. Google Takeaway It will allow you to download your contributions until the end of August.
Leave feedback about this