Google is experimenting with a new appearance for the top navigation bar in search results. The updated menu features icons that visually represent each category of search results.
Joe Youngblood discovered this test today and shared a screenshot on Twitter, showing the new design with gray icons that fill with color when selected. Interestingly, as Youngblood observed, the design changed during his search session. Initially, the regular design was displayed, but upon returning search results, the new design was shown.
From observations, this change appears to be strictly aesthetic, with no new menu items added. It’s assumed that the search results below the navigation menu remain unchanged. Although it’s impossible to replicate this test, the update is visually appealing and may assist users in finding information more quickly.
