Source: Search Engine Roundtable by barry@rustybrick.com (Barry Schwartz). Read the original article
TL;DR Summary of Google Testing Relocation of Follow Button in Knowledge Panels
Google is experimenting with moving the Follow button from the main search results page to the three dots menu within knowledge panels. This change requires users to click twice to follow an entity, instead of once. The adjustment is currently a test and has been verified through side-by-side comparisons and screenshots. It may affect how easily users can engage with entities on Google Search.
Optimixed’s Overview: Examining Google’s Follow Button Relocation Impact on User Engagement
Overview of the Change
Google is currently testing a modification in the placement of the Follow button within its knowledge panels on the search results page. Traditionally, the Follow button appeared prominently as a primary action button, but now it has been shifted inside a three dots menu, effectively adding an extra click for users to follow an entity.
Details and User Experience Implications
- Current Position: The Follow button is directly visible on the knowledge panel in the main search results.
- Tested Position: The button is relocated inside the three dots menu, requiring users to open the menu before following.
- Impact: This change could reduce the immediacy and convenience of following entities, potentially affecting user engagement rates.
Significance and What to Watch For
This test, first spotted by industry observers and confirmed through multiple screenshots, suggests Google is experimenting with interface simplification or decluttering. However, by increasing the number of clicks to follow, it may impact how users interact with knowledge panels and follow content creators, brands, or topics directly from search results.
