It used to be very convenient that when searching for something that had a geographic location, Google searches used to show a small map which linked to Google maps when pressed.
Now all I get i a tiny useless map, that doesn’t have any of the feature of Google maps, and often I don’t even get that.
Anyone know why that is? And if there is a fix?
I use Firefox, but I’m guessing it’s independent of browser, unless Google is up to their shenanigans again.
I’ve added Google maps as search option, which luckily is dead easy in Firefox to do. At the same time I added Open Street Map, to minimize Google map use to maybe show them they are losing traffic.
EDIT:
I think this is the reason as u/[email protected] writes:
If you’re in Europe, it may be due to the DMA.
You may also have noticed something new on Google, when looking for the address of a place: It’s now impossible to click on the map that appears in your search results.
Google is one of the “gatekeepers” according to the DMA (Digital Markets Act). The law recently went into effect. It is supposed to lessen the amount of preferential treatment the big tech companies give themselves.
I made self modifying assembly code on the C64, and programmed the hell out of blitter and copper on Amiga.
I don’t like modern programming, too abstract for my taste.
Regarding search engine I guess it boils down to which gives me results I can use the fastest. With Google having deductions due to privacy. It may also be how well I like the design.
The overall winner for me was Qwant, maybe because I’m from Europe? It has a good balance between local and international results. That tend to fit what I’m searching for. Google is way more heavily balanced towards local results, which is beginning to be a bit annoying. I prefer to not have to micro manage my searches too much.
Startpage on the other hand tends to show almost only international results.
You have to try them out, maybe test them on similar terms, and make your own personal observation, I don’t think you can say squarely that one is best.
Coming back to this after a while trying out. Qwant is indeed very nice in Europe at least. I tested it and adopted it, I also like the fact it have a map based on OSM which is nicer than the Apple thing in DDG.
Yes it is very nice, it’s strange it’s not more well known?