Google Discontinues Controversial “Page Annotations” On iOS via @sejournal, @MattGSouthern

Google has discontinued its Page Annotations diagnostic successful the iOS app, which automatically added hunt links to webpages.

The diagnostic was introduced precocious past twelvemonth and converted definite website substance into Google Search links without steadfast consent.

Recent updates corroborate that it’s nary longer supported.

Short-Lived & Controversial

The Page Annotations diagnostic was archetypal announced successful November and attracted attraction for its imaginable to divert postulation distant from websites.

This diagnostic automatically converted on-page substance into tappable links that directed visitors to Google Search results.

Unlike akin features successful Google’s ecosystem, Page Annotations utilized an opt-out model, meaning publishers didn’t request to opt in.

If you didn’t privation Google to insert links into your content, you had to taxable an opt-out form, and the changes would instrumentality effect wrong 30 days.

Silent Removal

Google has removed each mentions of the Page Annotations diagnostic from its authoritative documentation connected “Control what you stock with Google.”

The updated substance outlines assorted methods for publishers to power their content’s quality successful hunt results but does not notation the now-discontinued feature.

Additionally, the annoucement thread connected Google’s assemblage forums has been removed.

An archived mentation of the announcement remains available. See it successful the screenshot below:

Screenshot from: web.archive.org, March 2025.

Why the Reversal?

While Google hasn’t publically stated reasons for discontinuing Page Annotations, the feature’s instauration came astatine a delicate clip for the company, which has been facing increased scrutiny implicit its hunt and advertizing practices.

The diagnostic raised concerns astir Google’s narration with publishers. By inserting its links into others’ contented without explicit permission, Google influenced however radical interacted with websites wrong its app.

Why This Matters

Google’s speedy discontinuation of Page Annotations suggests it whitethorn beryllium reevaluating its steadfast relationships owed to ongoing antitrust concerns.

Publishers nary longer request to interest astir Google adding links to their contented successful the iOS app.

Featured Image: Below The Sky/Shutterstock

SEJ STAFF Matt G. Southern Senior News Writer astatine Search Engine Journal

Matt G. Southern, Senior News Writer, has been with Search Engine Journal since 2013. With a bachelor’s grade successful communications, ...