Initially, Google Desktop rolled out the changes for preview on any search related to COVID-19. More recently, they’re explaining the territory that the redesign covers, and now, if you do any relation to music searches on Google Desktop, you’ll have a user experience that differs somewhat from previous experiences.
The single most significant change to Google Desktop is the location of a navigation drawer on the screen’s left side. You’ll find the name of the current “Knowledge Panel” you’re viewing at the top, a description of the query itself just beneath it, and below that, subtopic categories that load new search terms.
Music search terms include:
- Overview
- Listen
- And share button
Of course, Google Desktop still relies heavily on the central information panel, displaying the top search results as usual and doesn’t offer anything significant in changes. However, to the right of that, you’ll find a “Listen” card on prominent display, which gives you a quick and easy way to sample the sound you’re searching for to verify that it’s your version or release. Also, note that just beneath that, you’ll find an “About” card which almost always links to Wikipedia content.
The new search aesthetic has been in testing for several months, and as mentioned, was initially only available for preview on a minimal basis. The recent rollout to music searches signifies that the company is ready for a widespread, more generalized rollout. So if you do not already see it regularly on the Google Desktop, know that you will be soon and that it’ll be better than what you’re currently listing to. Kudos to Google for that.
