Google is introducing a new feature in its search results that aims to show users different perspectives on various topics. This feature, called “Perspectives,” will be available starting Friday, according to an announcement made by Google on Twitter.
To access the Perspectives tab, users simply need to tap on the filter and they will see a collection of long- and short-form videos, images, and written posts that people have shared across different platforms such as discussion boards, Q&A sites, and social media. This includes content from platforms like TikTok, YouTube, websites, Twitter, Quora, and Reddit. In a blog post from May, Google explained that the Perspectives feature aims to provide users with a more diverse range of viewpoints and experiences on their search queries.
Perspectives results have been compared to a Pinterest-like layout rather than the traditional set of Google results. The visual presentation, as described by reporter David Pierce from The Verge, implies that users will have a more engaging and immersive search experience. It also ensures that users can access information not only from professional sources but also from individuals who have shared their personal insights and opinions on the topic.
Google’s introduction of the Perspectives feed initially appeared as a carousel for specific search results, with the intention of deterring users from appending “reddit” to their queries in order to find information with a human perspective. This trick had become less effective due to Reddit communities going dark in protest of planned API changes by Reddit. However, many subreddits have now reopened, and they can be accessed directly from Google search results.
Considering the ongoing conflict between subreddit moderators and Reddit, it is plausible that Google sees an opportunity to provide a similar platform with its Perspectives feed. However, it is also possible that the timing of the feature’s launch is purely coincidental. Google first announced the Perspectives tab during Google I/O in May and stated it would roll out in the “coming weeks.”
Despite the anticipation, some users, including the writer of the article, have yet to see the Perspectives tab in their search results. However, it is expected that the feature will become more widely available in the near future.
Overall, Google’s Perspectives feature aims to enhance search experiences by presenting users with a broader range of content and perspectives from various platforms. By including content from more personal sources like social media and discussion boards, users can gain a more comprehensive understanding of their search queries. This new approach emphasizes the importance of diverse viewpoints and reflects a growing recognition of the value of human experiences in search results.