An update on Android for search providers in Europe

Google is introducing a new search engine “choice screen” in Europe for Android users. It’s reminiscent of what Microsoft was compelled to do roughly a decade ago, to offer “browser choice” on the desktop in Europe. Part of antitrust compliance. This comes as part of Google’s effort to comply with the European Commission’s (EC’s) July, 2018 antitrust decision involving Android and app bundling. Google has appealed the decision and the associated roughly $5 billion fine. Starting in 2020, when Android users set up their devices they’ll be presented with a version of the following screen. Google says providers will potentially vary by country.

Local Scroll Pack Now Showing Ads

Google has been testing a new design for the “local pack,” the local results box in the search results. This new design shows the local results in a scrollable carousel format and now also includes an ad spot at the top.

Finding fresh, helpful information through featured snippets

Google’s Vice President of Search, Pandu Nayak, announced the company has launched an update to their search algorithms that keep featured snippets timely, fresh and relevant when the query demands it. This new update aims at making sure that the answers Google gives you for some questions are not just accurate but also timely. Google confirmed that this algorithm update aims at better understanding useful and timely information.