Google.com, the world’s most popular web address, is undergoing a bit of a remodel. Google has been famous for having one of the simplest home pages, with little more than a logo and search box on the page. Occasionally they will replace the logo with a “Google Doodle” for special events, but for the most part it is a very basic page. In the coming days and weeks, however, the page is going to be changing. Don’t worry, it isn’t going to be a major redesign or anything, and you’ll still recognize the search giant’s page.
The updates will feature a flatter, reshaped logo, and the old menu bar is replaced with a smaller list of links which will be placed on the right hand side of the page. This is the first change to Google’s logo since 2010. Similar changes will be rolling out across Google’s properties slowly, according to a Google spokeswomen. Overall, these changes are fairly subtle, and many users won’t even notice them.
Of course, the small changes are intentional, sine Google and other high-tech companies rely largely on customer loyalty. Major changes to one of the most recognizable logos in the industry could have a negative impact. In the past month, Google’s main competition (Bing and Yahoo) have also made some changes to their logos and home pages. Apparently tech companies are looking to look fresh and new in time for the Christmas season.
This is part of an effort by Google to streamline the users experience through all their services, and to prevent distractions. Some industry analysts believe that reducing the number of links on Google’s home page is an effort to push more people to click on the Google+ link. Google continues to try to promote their social network. While it is not on the level of Facebook, it has certainly been successful and is continuing to grow at a good rate.
What do you think about the updated Google home page (if it has been rolled out to your area yet).