Google Removed Follow Button From Desktop Search

The search giant discontinued a feature that allowed users to track publishers on desktop results pages.

Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Media

Isometric editorial illustration featuring a grid of geometric blocks with a distinct empty gap in the center, representing software interface changes. — Google has discontinued the 'Follow' button feature on desktop search results, a move that limits how users track publishers through browser-based Knowledge panels. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Google has removed the Follow button from desktop search results, marking a change to how users interact with content creators. The feature, previously found in Knowledge panels, remains available on mobile versions of the platform.

Why it matters

The removal changes the way users engage with publishers directly through search. By restricting the Follow button to mobile devices, Google has altered the desktop user experience regarding how audiences track their favorite creators.

The Follow button previously allowed users to track the Search profiles of creators through desktop Knowledge panels. While this functionality was removed from desktop, it remains accessible on mobile search results.

The players

Google

Google is a major technology company that operates the world's most widely used search engine platform.

The details

Users formerly accessed the Follow button directly within Knowledge panels displayed on search results pages. This change limits the ability of desktop users to subscribe to creator profiles via that interface.

September 28, 2026: The removal of the button from desktop search was confirmed.

Market Landscape

This move reflects the ongoing adjustment of Google Search Knowledge panels to prioritize specific user interaction methods. By differentiating between mobile and desktop experiences, the company is refining how users connect with publishers across its ecosystem.

Desktop users will no longer see the Follow button on search result pages, preventing them from using that specific tool to subscribe to creators. Users who wish to follow publishers must now access the feature through mobile devices.

The takeaway

Desktop users should adjust their habits if they rely on search results to track content creators. This change highlights the platform's focus on mobile-first interaction features for audience engagement.