Google is Testing A New Short Videos Search Filter on Mobile

Google Search stands as the go-to hub for finding web links across the vast expanse of the internet. Whether you’re seeking articles, YouTube videos, images, or even snappy short clips, Google has long been the trusted source. While Google’s venture into the realm of short videos has primarily revolved around YouTube Shorts, the company is now acknowledging the pivotal role of this format in delivering information. Users of Google Search may soon notice the introduction of a new filter specifically for Short Videos.

The rise of the short video format owes much to apps like Snapchat and TikTok in the realm of social media. Quickly embraced by platforms such as Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts, this format has spawned creators who specialize in crafting concise content. There’s a growing recognition of its appeal for delivering instructional content and news snippets. Short videos offer a captivating and visually engaging means of communication, although concerns about credibility linger.

Google is Testing A New Short Videos Search Filter on Mobile

Previously, Google lumped Shorts and other short video content together with regular web links in search results or categorized them under the broad “Videos” filter. However, a recent discovery by SEO consultant Brodie Clark revealed Google’s experimentation with a dedicated Short Videos filter for mobile users worldwide. This new filter, alongside others like Forums and UK-specific ones such as Products and Product Sites, reflects Google’s commitment to refining the search experience.

When activated, the Short Videos filter presents users with portrait-oriented content, including YouTube Shorts and TikTok videos. The content is neatly arranged in a two-column layout, eliminating the need for users to specify keywords like Reels, Shorts, or TikTok in their search queries. This feature streamlines the search process and enhances accessibility to short-form content. The observation by prominent feature researcher AssembleDebug further validates the global testing of this feature, raising anticipation for its widespread rollout post-testing phase.

While there’s no official word on a similar filter for web search accessible on desktops, speculation abounds regarding Google’s next move. Short video content is inherently tailored for mobile devices, with platforms encouraging portrait mode filming, which may not translate seamlessly to widescreen desktop monitors. However, considering Google’s previous integration of YouTube Shorts content on smart TVs, it’s plausible that the Short Videos filter could find its way into the desktop search interface.

In conclusion, Google’s acknowledgment of the significance of short video content in the information ecosystem marks a notable step forward. By introducing dedicated filters like Short Videos, Google aims to streamline the search experience and cater to the evolving preferences of users. As the testing phase progresses, anticipation builds for the widespread availability of this feature across all platforms, enriching the search experience for users worldwide.