Google is known for its simple homepage. Currently, it only shows a few elements — a text box, a few buttons, and then some links. But, it seems that Google is running another one of their experiments — one which I have been unwittingly involved in — to make the search engine even more ‘user friendly’. They have taken away all the links (and even the copyright notice), and only show the logo, search box and buttons.

It can be a little bit confusing when something changes on Google. When I first landed on this page, it was quite hard to grasp what the heck was going on: How do I log in? How do I change the search type!? But, then, just as you move your mouse to search for ‘Google log in’ (frustratingly), the old Google homepage fades in like magic!

Google tests 'fade in' feature

So, does this make Google any better? I don’t think so. Simple is a good way to go, but it’s simple enough already. Anybody overwhelmed by the current Google homepage should not be on the Internet. However, with this kind of micro-optimisation, it is just possible that Google could get 1 or 2 extra searches a year out of me.

What do you think?