Google Sitelinks search box is going away

Ever since Google introduced the sitelinks search box over a decade ago, this visual element has been an important part of the user's search experience. However, its usage has declined over time. In an effort to simplify search results, Google has announced that it will be removing this feature as of November 21, 2024.

This change will affect search results in all languages and countries/regions worldwide. Although the disappearance of the site link search box may change the way users search, Google emphasized that this adjustment will not affect site rankings or other visual elements of site links. In addition, Google will remove data related to the site link search box from rich media search results reports and stop highlighting related markup in rich media search results tests.

Webmasters need not worry about having the option to remove structured data from the site link search box. Although this data will no longer be supported, it will not cause issues in search or trigger any errors in Search Console reports. If you do decide to remove the structured data in question, make sure that your site name still communicates your brand message effectively.

In conclusion, while the disappearance of the site link search box marks a small change in Google search, its impact will be felt across the board. Webmasters should keep abreast of this change and consider how to optimize their search strategies for the new search landscape.