subject: Google adds thumbnails to search results (Instant View) [print this page] Google adds thumbnails to search results (Instant View)
Whilst it isn't a new invention, Google have added thumbnails to their search engine results. Other search engines have been doing this for a while, but not quite in the style Google has managed to achieve.
Google Instant Previews is activated by the user clicking a magnifying glass to activate the service. Once activated, simply hover over any search result to see a preview of the page. Bear in mind, this is still quite new and in roll out, so if your magnifying glass hasnt appeared yet - keep checking back!
Google conducted some research, and found that users using instant preview were 5% more likely to be satisfied with the page they visited.
From a user point of view, its sleek, smooth and effective. Some refer to the previews as 'thumbnails' but take a look, and you'll see its not just little picture. It is, in fact, a decent sized preview image, that also highlights your search term on in the actual preview.
From a design point of view, it highlights the need to make pages visually appealing from the outset. It marrys the importance of keywords and seo with designs that impact.
Benefits
Quickly Compare Results
A visual comparison of search results helps you pick which result is right for you.
Pinpoint Relevant Content
Text call outs highlight where your search term appears on the web page so you can evaluate if it's what you're looking for.
Interact with the Results Page
Page previews let you see the layout of a web page before clicking the search result.
