Google ends continuous scrolling on search results; reverts to the classic page-based results

In December 2022, Google introduced continuous scrolling for desktop search results. However, the change was not well received. Now, the tech giant has decided to reverse that decision, opting instead to return to the classic page-based search results.

According to a report from Search Engine Land, Google is discontinuing continuous scrolling on search results. This change will take effect starting June 25 for desktop searches, with the same update slated for mobile search results in the “coming months.”

A Google spokesperson informed Search Engine Land that continuous scrolling is being phased out from desktop search results today, with the mobile version following suit soon.

“Today, June 25, removing the ability to continuously scroll on desktop Search results, followed by mobile in the coming months. The “Next” at the bottom of the page will show on desktop search and the “More results” button will show on mobile search,” Search Engine Land reported, citing a Google spokesperson.

We conducted several searches and can confirm that Google has indeed reverted to the classic page-based design.

The continuous scrolling feature, reminiscent of the endless feeds found on social media platforms, was first introduced for mobile search results in October 2021 and later extended to desktop results at the end of 2022.

Instead of the infinite scroll, Google will reintroduce its traditional pagination bar on desktop searches, enabling users to jump directly to a specific page or click “Next” to view subsequent pages. For mobile searches, a “More results” button will be added at the bottom of the page, allowing users to load additional results as needed.

Google explained that this change aims to enhance the speed of search result delivery. By returning to pagination, the company can serve search results faster across more queries, rather than preloading results that users might not request. The company also noted that continuous scrolling did not result in “significantly higher” user satisfaction with Google Search.