Google's Recent Reshuffle
Google Operating Systems reports that Google is currently testing a new homepage interface. Google has undergone a test move for the navigation links on Google.com. The navigation links move to a position directly above the search box and directly under the Google logo, towards the top left of the page and parallel to the sign in link.
It is not the first time Google have made alterations to their classic homepage but this new test move could be the most daring to date. The links to Google's services were detached from the search box and moved in the top left corner. Because there's no visible connection between the links and the search box, this move has allowed Google to add non-search services: Gmail, Google Calendar and Google Docs. Gmail and other services such as Calendar and Docs and spreadsheets have now become available for general use. As a result these developed services are being promoted to a more obvious and prominent location.
So let's look back...
The first images of Google's homepage are now fascinating. The company has come a long way since December 2nd 1998 when it featured a plump logo, 'Staniforth Search', Company info, Google Logos and e-mail subscription. The 'Staniforth Search' facility reminds us of the company's humble beginnings in Staniforth University.
This look remained until April 22nd 1999 when the homepage was refined to a much more concise format with only three link options immediately available.
On Oct 1st 1999, Google launched the logo that has stood the test of time. Many small interface modifications were made but up to Jan 23rd 2002 Google kept things nice and simple. On this date, Google implemented four main tabs to the homepage: Web, Images, Groups and Directory.
On Sept 22nd 2002 Google made a big introduction - Google News. News was the fifth main tab on the homepage.
The next main tab 'Froogle' was added on the 25th March 2004 and Google again simplified the interface by removing the coloured tabs, creating the image that we are familiar with today.
We now have an additional 'More' option as Google really starts gaining momentum expanding its product offering and the site remains fairly consistent from this point taking us up to the present day.
