In recent years, Google Search has undergone significant changes, primarily with the integration of AI features. These range from “Search Overviews” to “Circle to Search,” adding various enhancements to the search experience. However, some users prefer a simpler search interface reminiscent of earlier times. For those users, there’s a way to experience a more basic version of Google Search.
By adding “udm=14” to the Google search URL, users can access a results page that resembles Google from the early 2000s. This feature, introduced by Google, hasn’t been widely publicized. A tweet from Google Search Liaison on May 14, 2024, provides an official hint about this “Web” filter.
The “Web” filter is designed for users who prefer to see only links to websites in their search results. This can be particularly useful for those looking for longer text documents, using a device with limited internet access, or simply wanting text-based results without additional search features.
To illustrate the effect of the “Web” filter, consider a search for “t3n Magazine.” Normally, Google displays a variety of results, including infoboxes and other AI-generated content. However, with the “udm=14” addition, the results page only shows links to websites related to the search term, offering a cleaner, simpler interface.
Ernie Smith from tedium.co describes the feature as an “un-Googled” version of Google. He notes that while the interface may look like an earlier version of Google Search, it doesn’t undo the extensive SEO optimizations made over the years. The results are still highly optimized, regardless of the interface’s appearance.
For users who prefer this minimalist search experience, Smith suggests modifying the search query URL in their browser settings. By setting “https://www.google.com/search?q=%s&udm=14” as the default search URL, users can bypass AI-generated infoboxes with every search.
This feature offers a nostalgic look at Google’s past while still operating within the framework of modern search technology. It provides an option for those who value simplicity and efficiency in their online searches.