Google search is quietly testing a new feature, "Discussions," in its mobile beta. This addition aims to enable users to contribute their opinions directly within search results, specifically for topics like sports. When users in the US search for a "team vs team" query, Google not only delivers traditional rich content such as scores and upcoming games but also opens a space for public commentary on the topic.
While still in its experimental phase, the beta tag indicates that Google is exploring a new social element for Search. This feature allows users to comment on sports-related queries and share their thoughts publicly. Unlike the simple "like" buttons of most platforms, users can upvote or downvote comments, creating an interactive discussion. When you click on a user, you are taken to their Discussions profile, where you can view their entire commenting history.
The filtering system also stands out, as users can choose to view either the "Top" comments or see all of them. This added functionality sets the stage for a richer, more engaging conversation about the topics people are already searching for. This sports-centric feature seems to make sense given the social nature of sports fans, who often look for a platform to discuss games and teams while checking live stats.
Although it’s still unclear what Google ultimately intends with Discussions, it’s easy to draw comparisons to past efforts to integrate social elements into its services. The attempt isn’t Google’s first foray into creating an online community; it previously launched Google Plus, which was eventually shut down. Nevertheless, Google’s new move suggests a growing competition with platforms like Reddit, especially as Reddit strengthens its search functionality with AI and as Google’s feature becomes more community-driven.
Whether this new feature succeeds in fostering long-term user engagement remains to be seen, but if the beta proves popular, it could shift the way we interact with search results in the future.
H/T: Nicholas McDonough / Glenn Gabe
Read next: Apple Prepares Smarter Battery Controls Amid iOS 19 Launch Hopes
While still in its experimental phase, the beta tag indicates that Google is exploring a new social element for Search. This feature allows users to comment on sports-related queries and share their thoughts publicly. Unlike the simple "like" buttons of most platforms, users can upvote or downvote comments, creating an interactive discussion. When you click on a user, you are taken to their Discussions profile, where you can view their entire commenting history.
The filtering system also stands out, as users can choose to view either the "Top" comments or see all of them. This added functionality sets the stage for a richer, more engaging conversation about the topics people are already searching for. This sports-centric feature seems to make sense given the social nature of sports fans, who often look for a platform to discuss games and teams while checking live stats.
Although it’s still unclear what Google ultimately intends with Discussions, it’s easy to draw comparisons to past efforts to integrate social elements into its services. The attempt isn’t Google’s first foray into creating an online community; it previously launched Google Plus, which was eventually shut down. Nevertheless, Google’s new move suggests a growing competition with platforms like Reddit, especially as Reddit strengthens its search functionality with AI and as Google’s feature becomes more community-driven.
Whether this new feature succeeds in fostering long-term user engagement remains to be seen, but if the beta proves popular, it could shift the way we interact with search results in the future.
H/T: Nicholas McDonough / Glenn Gabe
Read next: Apple Prepares Smarter Battery Controls Amid iOS 19 Launch Hopes
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