Google, one of the world’s top search engines, has been working diligently to improve the search experience for users. In particular, Google has set its sights on enhancing search capabilities in Africa, a continent with diverse languages, cultures, and unique challenges.
Here are five ways Google is making search better for users in Africa:
1. Quality results:
According to a statement, Google has always aimed to provide users with the most reliable information. Over time, the company has adapted its search algorithms to tackle misinformation and unreliable content. With the rise of conspiracy theories and medical misinformation, Google is now prioritising trustworthy sources in search results. They also conduct rigorous quality checks to meet high standards.
Furthermore, when dealing with information gaps or rapidly evolving topics, Google now offers notifications to encourage users to be cautious and provides tools for fact-checking sources.
2. Understanding queries:
Understanding the meaning behind users’ questions is essential for delivering accurate results. Hence, Google made substantial strides in natural language processing and language understanding. Their systems now recognise synonyms and context more effectively.
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In addition, breakthroughs like the Knowledge Graph allow Google to understand relationships between people, places, and things, providing users with more relevant information. Large language models like BERT further enhance language understanding across various languages, and Google Translate breaks language barriers to make global information more accessible.
3. Beyond Text: Images and videos
Google’s search capabilities now go beyond text. 2008, the search engine platform introduced voice search, simplifying mobile searching. “Hum to search” was another innovation, enabling users to search by humming a tune.
Moreover, in 2015, Google introduced Lens, which turns mobile phone cameras into tools for identifying objects in the real world. Users now conduct over 12 billion visual searches monthly with Lens. The recent addition of Multisearch allows users to combine text and images, improving the search experience.
4. Combating spam:
Google employs advanced systems to combat spam in search results, ensuring users aren’t bombarded with irrelevant or harmful content. These systems are continuously updated to stay ahead of evolving spam techniques. Furthermore, it utilises AI-powered techniques, resulting in over 99% spam-free search results. Fighting spam remains a top priority to maintain the reliability of search results.
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5. Ensuring safety
Google is committed to maximising access to information while ensuring user safety and control. They have expanded policy protections and improved ranking systems to promote safety and inclusivity. Measures have been implemented to reduce explicit and harmful content in search results.
It also offers tools for users to manage their personal information in search results, including options for individuals under 18 to remove images of themselves from search.
“Billions of people rely on Google for information, so there’s always something more we can do and new questions we can help people with. That’s why we’re always working to make Search better every day,” the statement read in part.
