I don’t know if you’ve been to Google’s homepage lately… Okay, let me rephrase that. I don’t know if you have noticed, but Google’s homepage looks a little… umm… bare. You’re probably accustomed to seeing the logo, the search box, the two buttons (“Google Search”, and “I’m Feeling Lucky”), and of course the other options across the top and bottom. Although, and you may have not paid much attention to this, but there is something different when you go there now. The options are missing!!!
It seems like Google has taken a minimalist approach, by getting rid of the distractions, and getting down to what you really came there to do – search! But what about the options? What if I came to search images, or get quick access to my gmail, what do I do now? Well do not fret, all is not lost. With a gentle move of your mouse, the missing options fade in all it’s option glory. It’s a small change, and maybe not a big deal, but it’s one I’m all for.
Google has streamlined your search experience, removing the clutter, and allowing you to focus on searching. Once you hit the site, the cursor is ready, blinking in the search field awaiting your key strokes. If you haven’t seen (or noticed) it already, try it out. It’s a little thing that makes a big difference.