Google is testing autoplaying videos in search results
The tech giant is running a “small experiment” on the feature.
Google is running a small-scale test of autoplaying videos in some search results, the tech giant has confirmed.
The feature would see videos, such as film or TV trailers, start to play automatically in the knowledge panel on the right-hand side of some search results.
“We are constantly experimenting with ways to improve the search experience for our users, but have no plans to announce at this time,” Google told Search Engine Land in a statement.
But the universal response to autoplay hasn’t been positive so far, Facebook introduced an opt-out setting for those not keen on the idea, while a Chrome extension also exists that blocks autoplay on any website.
Much like its social media counterparts – and seen as a positive by many – Google’s autoplaying videos are muted by default, with users needing to click in order to activate the audio.
Google has not given any indication on how long the trial will last.
