We all know that the words that turn up in Google search when you type refer to related searches from other users and that it predicts what we are trying to find in the Google SE. This is the autocomplete feature that is available in all Google search boxes in the Google homepage, the Google App for iOS and Android, the Android quick search box and in Chrome’s “Omnibox” address bar. But what is happening during a search that changes the autocomplete predictions as you type?
The autocomplete feature is intended to help users complete searches, not necessarily to suggest new features. It helps you save time and discover relevant searches which may be useful:
- It makes it easy to finish entering your search topic without having to type all words or letters.
- It helps you complete individual words or phrases as you type.
- It makes searching on a small screen, where it is hard to type, easier.
According to Google, 25% of typing time is reduced on the average, which translates to an estimated 200 years of typing time each day!
What predictions come up and which ones are removed?
The autocomplete predictions are a combination of actual Google searches that are common and trending, those that are relevant to the words or characters being typed, and those relevant to your location or previous searches. The predictions change as you type because it predicts the search query depending on the characters you are typing or the context of what you type.
Also, some predictions are removed in the process. Why is this so? Google has an Autocomplete policy, and it makes sure that the predictions comply with these policies. The autocomplete policies bar the following types of content:
- Sexually explicit predictions (not related to medical, scientific or sex education)
- Hateful predictions (influencing hate or discrimination towards a group, race, religion or several other demographics
- Predictions that are violent
- Dangerous and harmful activities
- Predictions that tend to be spammy.
- Predictions that are closely related to piracy
- Responses to a valid legal request
What’s coming up with search predictions?
As a rule, autocomplete should not shock users with unwanted or unexpected predictions. As an integrated effort to enhance the quality of predictions, there are ongoing initiatives by Google.
- A feedback tool has been developed which they have been using since last year to make improvements. In a few weeks, the criteria on the policy on removing hate and violence will have been expanded and fully enforced.
- Also launched last year was the “Report inappropriate predictions” link found below the search box on the desktop.
- On Google App and iOS, long pressing on a prediction will return a reporting option. On iOS, you can swipe to the left.
- When a reported prediction is acted upon, the context is expanded into related predictions which are also removed.
- Predictions are made richer by maximising how they appear. On a desktop, up to ten search predictions may appear, while on mobile, up to five due to a smaller view. On Chrome, certain information related to the search may appear below the search predictions such as (weather, dates, local weather or sports information).
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