Google Ends "Notes on Search" Experiment

Google Search Notes

Google has decided to end its Google Notes Search Labs experiment, which allowed users to view and add notes to search results. Many people in the search community expected this decision.

The feature was only available on Android and Apple devices and its practical purpose or usefulness was never clearly defined. Search marketers have consistently expressed concerns that it would attract spam.

The Search Labs page promotes the experiment as a tool for self-expression, to assist other users, and as a way for users to gather their own notes in their Google profiles.

The official Notes page in Search Labs has a simple notice:

Notes on Search Ends May 2024

That’s it.

Screenshot Of Notice

Screenshot of Google's notice of cancellation

Reaction From Search Community

Kevin Indig tweeted his thoughts that anything Google makes with a user generated content aspect was doomed to attract spam.

He tweeted:

“I’m gonna assume Google retires notes because of spam.

It’s crazy how spammy the web has become. Google can’t launch anything UGC without being bombarded.”

Cindy Krum (@Suzzicks) tweeted that it was author Purna Virji (LinkedIn profile) who predicted that it would be shut down once Google received enough data.

She shared:

"Purna was the one who predicted it during our time at Barbados SEO. While I was speaking, she mentioned that everyone thought it would be spammed. However, she believed it was just a test to gather specific information until they achieved their goal, and then it would be discontinued."

Purna herself shared her thoughts on Twitter.

In my personal opinion (not related to my employer), I believe that everyone desires to use User Generated Content (UGC) for training AI models. For example, the recent Reddit deal could potentially contribute to this goal.

Google’s Notes for Search feature never gained much traction. It was initially met with skepticism and indifference, and now that it is being phased out, there doesn't seem to be much regret from users.

Featured Image by Shutterstock/Jamesbin

Editor's P/S:

The discontinuation of Google Notes Search Labs highlights the challenges associated with user-generated content (UGC) in the context of search. While UGC can provide valuable insights and personalization, it also attracts spam and manipulation. Google's decision to end this experiment suggests that they prioritize the integrity of their search results over the potential benefits of UGC.

The concerns raised by the search community, including the predictions of spam, underscore the need for robust spam detection and moderation mechanisms when implementing UGC features. Google's experience with Notes Search Labs serves as a reminder that the balance between user expression and search quality remains a delicate one, requiring careful consideration and ongoing refinement.