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Where did the "Location" go, on Google SERP?
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In order to emulate different locations, I've always done a Google query, then used the "Location" button under "Search Tools" at the top of the SERP to define my preferred location. It seems to have disappeared in the past few days? Anyone know where it went, or if it's gone forever? Thanks!
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Wow - hadn't thought of that! Very creative use of resources!!
Thanks so much ~ Scott -
Hi Scott, you can actually find out specific locations via Google Ad Preview:
https://adwords.google.com/apt/AdPreview?__u=1000000000&__c=1000000000
Enjoy!
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Looks like they have fully rolled out the update now!
http://searchengineland.com/google-drops-change-location-search-filter-from-search-results-237247
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Yeah, hearing multiple reports, but no word yet if this is a test or a permanent change. Our tools support geo-location now, but I don't of any other way to manually set it in the Google interface. There is a URL variable (uule) that still works, but it's oddly complicated (it uses an encoded value that takes some sleuthing).
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Hi, What I see from Google in The Netherlands is:
https://support.google.com/websearch/answer/179386?p=ws_settings_location&hl=en&rd=1
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We were actually discussing this on the Local Search Forum - http://www.localsearchforum.com/google-local-important/38249-heads-up-google-either-moving-removing-search-location-setting.html - Looks like Google is removing that function in many of the data centers across the country. This may be a test, or it may be a full depreciation of the function since it is possible most people aren't aware of it. I would assume consultants and marketers know of the ability to change location, but normal searchers will just tack on a location to the query.
Check out the other forum to read up on the discussion.
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Yep, I was afraid that I'm in the "test group" - hope the test fails!! That's an important tool for me! Thanks ~ Scott
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Yes, but is it editable at the bottom of the page? Mine isn't. Thanks! ~ Scott
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Hi Scott,
I had the same issue. Now I found that in the very bottom of the SERP page the location it uses is shown. Hope this help!
Tymen
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I am still able to access these settings under the 'Search Tools' tab
It might be that they are testing users actions by removing it for a few people, Google are always doing this.
Worth keeping an eye on it if you still can't find it though, might be an indication of things to come.
Cheers
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