Google is exploring a new format for mobile search results by placing images next to sitelinks. This development was highlighted in a CNBC report that delves into the workings of Google Search.
The report states that during a meeting observed by CNBC, a new mobile search format was tested, which included displaying a photo from a webpage alongside its link. The idea is that such images could help users better determine which link is most relevant to their search.
The concept of having larger image thumbnails in search snippets is not new, as Google has been using these in mobile search results for a few years. However, images alongside sitelinks at the bottom of the snippet have not been seen before, suggesting that it remains in the testing phase.
The CNBC report includes a screenshot provided as an example of changes that Google’s quality raters are tasked with evaluating. These raters assess whether adding images next to sitelinks enhances their understanding of the results.
Data shows that quality raters found the images helpful 91% of the time. Given this positive feedback, it seems this change might be implemented on a broader scale in the future. Google informed CNBC that actual users, in addition to quality raters, are also subjected to these tests, though the company did not disclose how many queries were shown to each group.
