Please bring back the Search Web Button!

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Daizymom

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Feb 3, 2009, 10:41:26 PM2/3/09
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I use it all the time!

SHASKA

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Feb 4, 2009, 4:03:11 AM2/4/09
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Please do this!! I would hate to go back to the unthemed version of
Gmail.

TaylorATL

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Feb 4, 2009, 7:43:15 AM2/4/09
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Bring back the button! Why was it removed? Now I have to open another
tab and then enter my query to search and keep my gmail open.

Hkatt

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Feb 4, 2009, 10:00:39 AM2/4/09
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I also use it all the time. I have no idea why would it need to be
removed. It's not like it's in the way!

It really makes no sense!

Please bring back the Search Web Button.

Philippe Gioseffi

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Feb 4, 2009, 10:16:17 AM2/4/09
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Bring back it plus the update conversation feature... Not even typing
"U" solve the problem.

MAMBOLERO

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Feb 4, 2009, 11:24:45 AM2/4/09
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Strength in numbers -- find other Gmail-ers who are dismayed and
confused about the apparent removal of the "Search Web" option here:

http://www.google.com/url?url=http://groups.google.com/g/80f7faa1/t/5...

__here:

http://groups.google.com/group/Gmail-Help-Settings-en/t/5d0a9b43c47ff225?hl=en

__and here:

http://groups.google.com/group/Gmail-Help-Logging-In-en/browse_thread...


As mentioned elsewhere, it is bizarre, ironic, and frustrating that
Google, the leading search engine, should REMOVE the "Search Web"
option from the Gmail page. The ability to simply, quickly, and
easily (virtually in one motion) search for
content, do a quick bit of sideline research, perform a quick fact
check, all while composing or reading email, has been a compelling
reason for me to favor Gmail more than any of my other webmail
providers. While I can't say removing the "Search Web" option is a
deal-breaker, I can say it isn't a deal-maker.


Another small irony here: by adding "Move" (and a semblance of
folders for newbies who don't quite grasp the modus operandi of
Gmail), Google is remodelling Gmail to resemble more strongly other
traditional webmail destinations like Yahoo, et al., yet in the same
motion, they have subtracted "Search Web" which is a function other
webmail sites
emulate because of its brilliant and expedient usefulness.


Sorry, Google, but have you forgotten what your primary product
is? Search!

ppcd

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Feb 4, 2009, 11:26:00 AM2/4/09
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Sorry, if I'm posting this in the wrong place but I just wanted to
join the chorus-the search the web feature was the best part of my
gmail. I only joined groups to voice my frustration with the change.
The old version of gmail is not a good option either
because with the firefox update, my chat contacts doesn't show up in
that version. UGH!!!

ahoy

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Feb 4, 2009, 11:44:15 AM2/4/09
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I used the search the web button all the time. Please bring it back.
Or at least give us an option to default to the older version.

Denis4444

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Feb 4, 2009, 12:15:58 PM2/4/09
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me too !!!!
Bring it back !!!
:-)

imacookoo

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Feb 4, 2009, 12:24:38 PM2/4/09
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One more vote for bringing back that wonderful "Search the Web"
button! We miss it and love it so!!

Jay Basu

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Feb 4, 2009, 12:30:24 PM2/4/09
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Please bring it back

Chris

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Feb 4, 2009, 12:34:46 PM2/4/09
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Please bring the search feature back. I use it more than the search
box in the Google toolbar.
> > button!  We miss it and love it so!!- Hide quoted text -
>
> - Show quoted text -

Jaso...@gmail.com

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Feb 4, 2009, 12:53:55 PM2/4/09
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Why on earth would the search button have gone away?

At least put an option under settings to bring it back!

afurzmom

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Feb 4, 2009, 1:03:36 PM2/4/09
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Another voice...PLEASE restore the Search Web Button!!!!!!!!

phylarch

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Feb 4, 2009, 1:13:30 PM2/4/09
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Please put it back. i use it 50 times a day!

fast...@gmail.com

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Feb 4, 2009, 1:32:21 PM2/4/09
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I agree! why make us go through another step? this is a bad upgrade


On Feb 3, 10:41 pm, Daizymom wrote:

dgmma

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Feb 4, 2009, 1:38:46 PM2/4/09
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Ditto - I agree that the interface should be lean, but this is one
button I use all the time too.

On Feb 3, 10:41 pm, Daizymom wrote:

Helene

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Feb 4, 2009, 2:03:24 PM2/4/09
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GOOGLE PAY ATTENTION!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Bring back the search button or we will all go back to our original
email accounts. I still have my Hotmail and now they have a search
button.


BRING IT BACK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

On Feb 3, 7:41 pm, Daizymom wrote:

pdg108

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Feb 4, 2009, 2:10:10 PM2/4/09
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Good grief. Why was this removed? It's Gmail for cripes sake?!
That's Google Mail! You know, that search place! The "seach the
frellen web" company!

Please tell me this was a error not a conscience decision.

On Feb 3, 10:41 pm, Daizymom wrote:

bkgzen

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Feb 4, 2009, 2:10:14 PM2/4/09
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It's so inconvenient without the "Search the Web" button

On Feb 3, 10:41 pm, Daizymom wrote:

labellevie

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Feb 4, 2009, 2:21:43 PM2/4/09
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I'm also joining the chorus, with a C&P from my response in a
different thread:
I'd like the "Search the Web" button back, too. I have Gmail open all
day long and use that one-step functionality constantly, and prefer
to not have to open another window (and no, I can't install Google
toolbar). I'm extremely disappointed that it's gone. I've set my
display back to "Older version" for now to get it back, but I
sincerely hope that this decision will be given another look and the
button will come back.

arbor

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Feb 4, 2009, 2:24:54 PM2/4/09
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another plea to bring it back. It's the most convenient search tool,
allowing for seamless toggling between gmail and searches. It's
crippling not to have it

On Feb 3, 10:41 pm, Daizymom wrote:

uncleSally

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Feb 4, 2009, 2:36:54 PM2/4/09
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Please bring back this useful feature !

thanks, US

K-Mac

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Feb 4, 2009, 2:53:37 PM2/4/09
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This is as awful an idea as New Coke! :-(
> > I use it all the time!- Hide quoted text -

mh1

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Feb 4, 2009, 2:56:50 PM2/4/09
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I also use this feature all the time and desperately want it back.

Those of us who are stuck with an older version of IE at work don't
have access to Google Toolbar, the Firefox search bar, or tabbed
browsing. Plus, our computers are so slow that waiting for a new
browser window to open is a pain, so we'd rather it open directly to
our search.

I keep Gmail up all day, so the "Search the Web" button makes it
infinitely easier to do web searches. I even use it to search for
websites I want to visit instead of opening a new window and typing in
the url. Now I just have this miserable feeling every time I type a
web search into Gmail but then realize that I have to open a new
window to do what I want to do.

Please bring back "Search the Web"!

oldmansutton

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Feb 4, 2009, 3:07:42 PM2/4/09
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I keep my gmail open all day long, and use it as a launching spot for
most of my web activities. This includes using Google to search the
web. Up until now, we've had the option to search mail, or search the
web, and it's been great. Searchable mail AND the option to search
Google on the same page, I mean, it's a match made in heaven. The
recent subtraction of the "Search the Web" button is leaving me
scratching my head however. Why are we removing functionality? Why
would a company that is known the world over for its amazing search
engine, suddenly not include an easy way to use said search engine
right on one of their flagship products? The hassle now of having to
open a new tab/page just to search, while minorly inconvenient, IS
inconvenient, and is a change I am definitely less than happy about.
I'm all for adding fuctionality, and I use and love most of the new
options that have come out of the labs. But removing one of the
BIGGEST functional aspects of Gmail (the integration into the rest of
the Google world) is just about the worst thing I've ever seen.
Please bring back the ability to search the web from Gmail.

zwartepiet

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Feb 4, 2009, 3:08:41 PM2/4/09
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I'd like it back, too, but my guess is that they removed it to improve
gmail performance which has been more sluggish than normal in the past
month.

On Feb 4, 12:53 pm, "[email address]" wrote:

NoXenu

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Feb 4, 2009, 3:32:11 PM2/4/09
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yes even I want to know the name of this Google genius who decided to
remove this feature.. I was so addicted to it. Why was it removed??

pollysue

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Feb 4, 2009, 3:37:47 PM2/4/09
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I couldn't work out what was missing at first but it's really
annoying. Please bring it back -- it was brilliant -- there all the
time, opened up search in a new window rather than navigating away
from the page I have up all the time, for work. this is really NOT an
improvement.

MAMBOLERO

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Feb 4, 2009, 3:50:07 PM2/4/09
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Kudos to you, Zwartepiet, for trying to defend Google/Gmail, but the
issues go much deeper than "they removed it to improve gmail
performance which has been more sluggish than normal in the past
month."

Check the technology news sites or even your local newspaper for
recent reports about Gmail sending perfectly good emails to users'
Spam folder, the episodes of Google labelling otherwise acceptable
webpages as malware, and the thousands of Gmail users who were either
temporarily locked out of their accounts or after logging in,
discovered their Sent Mail and All Mail had disappeared.

Gently said: do you really believe that a justifiable reason for
removing the "Search the Web" function from our Gmail page has
anything remotely to do with sluggish, sloppy Gmail and Google
performance? Sadly, it's unlikely. It's more likely however, that in
Google's pell mell dash to the finish line of certain projects, the
Four Horsemen -- human error, bad judgment, denial, and vanity -- are
causing the G-men to stumble.
> > At least put an option under settings to bring it back!- Hide quoted text -

NoXenu

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Feb 4, 2009, 4:06:46 PM2/4/09
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I'd rather have spam delivered to my inbox than to have legitimate
mail go to spam..

NoXenu

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Feb 4, 2009, 4:08:23 PM2/4/09
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anyway hopefully someone will make a firefox extension for it.

On Feb 4, 8:56 pm, mh1 wrote:

MAMBOLERO

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Feb 4, 2009, 4:17:30 PM2/4/09
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Amitabh, stay with the topic! ;-)
> > > - Show quoted text -- Hide quoted text -

bring it back

unread,
Feb 4, 2009, 4:26:53 PM2/4/09
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Can't believe they'd take it off without at least having an option to
include it.

Mareourn

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Feb 4, 2009, 4:38:58 PM2/4/09
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Please bring it back. This has altered my life!

dcarroll

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Feb 4, 2009, 4:43:23 PM2/4/09
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Me too! My whole mojo is off today not being able to search google
from my gmail. Bring back my mojo!

Jumpman

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Feb 4, 2009, 5:35:16 PM2/4/09
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Please bring that button back. I've gone to click it about 5 times
today already, just to be disappointed. Also, I HATE extra toolbars
if that is the official work-around. Why would I want to sacrifice a
full width section of my browser when a single button paired with a
dual-use text entry pane is so much more elegant?

Axmillia

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Feb 4, 2009, 5:37:11 PM2/4/09
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I don't use it all the time, and I don't particularly need it because
I use Chrome, but I would like it for when I am using Firefox.

Needlegrrl

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Feb 4, 2009, 5:39:17 PM2/4/09
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Bring back the web search button PLEASE! It's been making me crazy all
day!
Us curious and busy people miss it!

BChan

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Feb 4, 2009, 6:22:52 PM2/4/09
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I was amazed to see the Web Search button disappeared!!! whatever the
reason behind it I don't care, this is the button we all love and use
most, please bring it back!!!

hugoslc

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Feb 4, 2009, 6:23:29 PM2/4/09
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Please Google bring back the "search the web" button.

On 4 Fev, 19:56, mh1 wrote:
> I also use this feature all the time and desperately want it back.
>
> Those of us who are stuck with an older version of IE at work don't
> have access to Google Toolbar, the Firefoxsearchbar, or tabbed
> browsing. Plus, our computers are so slow that waiting for a new
> browser window to open is a pain, so we'd rather it open directly to
> oursearch.
>
> I keep Gmail up all day, so the "SearchtheWeb"buttonmakes it
> infinitely easier to dowebsearches. I even use it tosearchfor
> websites I want to visit instead of opening a new window and typing in
> the url. Now I just have this miserable feeling every time I type awebsearchinto Gmail but then realize that I have to open a new
> window to do what I want to do.
>
> Please bring back "SearchtheWeb"!

thewamphyri

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Feb 4, 2009, 6:30:04 PM2/4/09
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Please bring it back!

I see a few posts about Google deciding in their ultimate 'wisdom' to
delete it, if this is true, so this is my voice of desire for it to be
returned.

(And, Google, don't think that people can just use the browser search
option instead - it
opens in the same window/tab, pointless)

Thanks

ppcd

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Feb 4, 2009, 6:39:34 PM2/4/09
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I use this feature all the time.I am not an important office worker or
savvy computer person. I stay on the gmail page because I stay in
touch with my adult children--who live all over the world-- on gchat
and vid. chat. With the wonderful search feature I can be surfing and
chatting at the same time .I check when my contacts have their green
light on and then I know my kids are available to chat with me,
whether they are in London or Hong Kong, I don't miss an opportunity
to visit with them or them with me. It has been invaluable to keep us
connected and to be able to enjoy surfing at the same time. Many times
while we are chatting they send me a link to something they want me to
read and I can read it while we are visiting. I know that isn't an
earth shattering reason, but it is my most improtant reason and its
pretty important in this old ladies life. Please bring it back!

Jay838

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Feb 4, 2009, 7:26:05 PM2/4/09
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Make it an option, pleeeez!

LLG

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Feb 4, 2009, 7:38:40 PM2/4/09
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grrr........ this has been making me crazy all day and making my job
search cumbersome. I'm switching back to hotmail or something if they
can't bring the button back in a day.

Richi

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Feb 4, 2009, 7:38:47 PM2/4/09
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I've had gmail for years but only just started using the 'search the
web button' and it's super convenient..
google started as a search engine and the button should stay on gmail!

Ksu

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Feb 4, 2009, 7:45:01 PM2/4/09
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Yes please.... it's essential, bring it back!

ssj4Gogeta

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Feb 4, 2009, 7:54:39 PM2/4/09
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Yes, pleaseee bring it back. Why in the world was it removed?

Cork_Guy

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Feb 4, 2009, 8:00:52 PM2/4/09
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I refuse to use the new version until this issue is resolved.
Removing the search web feature is the stupidest thing ever.
I can't believe google/gmail would shoot itself in the foot like
this!

LisaW

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Feb 4, 2009, 8:42:28 PM2/4/09
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Come on Google! This was incredibly convenient. Bring it back!!!!

Huevos

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Feb 4, 2009, 8:52:52 PM2/4/09
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I agree with everyone else. I really miss the search button. Please
bring it back

desi.ton

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Feb 4, 2009, 10:57:07 PM2/4/09
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Dear Google/Gmail,
Please bring back the "SEARCH THE WEB" Button.... please
<(^.^)> (hugggg!)
it would be a huge help because i use it all the time. especialllly
when im running late to class and have to "Search the Web" for the
hazards of a chemical for my organic chem class...
and thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

with love, hugs and kisses,
desi

Myn

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Feb 5, 2009, 12:57:04 AM2/5/09
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Yet another unsatisfied customer. Who on earth thought that removing
the button was a good idea?

rai

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Feb 5, 2009, 4:05:16 AM2/5/09
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Dear Google,

I would really like the "Search Web" option in the new version as it
was in the beginning. This option was one of the reasons why I changed
my email. Also, I would like to know (as well as the other people on
this forum) why it was taken off?

On Feb 4, 5:42 pm, LisaW wrote:
> Come on Google! This was incredibly convenient.Bringitback!!!!
>
> On Feb 4, 8:00 pm, Cork_Guy wrote:
>
>
>
> > I refuse to use the new version until this issue is resolved.
> > Removing thesearchwebfeature is the stupidest thing ever.
> > I can't believe google/gmail would shoot itself in the foot like
> > this!
>
> > On Feb 4, 7:54 pm, ssj4Gogeta wrote:
>
> > > Yes, pleaseeebringitback. Why in the world was it removed?
>
> > > On Feb 5, 1:07 am, oldmansutton wrote:
>
> > > > I keep my gmail open all day long, and use it as a launching spot for
> > > > most of mywebactivities.  This includes using Google tosearchthe
> > > >web.  Up until now, we've had the option tosearchmail, orsearchthe
> > > >web, and it's been great.  Searchable mail AND the option tosearch
> > > > Google on the same page, I mean, it's a match made in heaven.  The
> > > > recent subtraction of the "SearchtheWeb" button is leaving me
> > > > scratching my head however.  Why are we removing functionality?  Why
> > > > would a company that is known the world over for its amazingsearch
> > > > engine, suddenly not include an easy way to use saidsearchengine
> > > > right on one of their flagship products?  The hassle now of having to
> > > > open a new tab/page just tosearch, while minorly inconvenient, IS
> > > > inconvenient, and is a change I am definitely less than happy about.
> > > > I'm all for adding fuctionality, and I use and love most of the new
> > > > options that have come out of the labs.  But removing one of the
> > > > BIGGEST functional aspects of Gmail (the integration into the rest of
> > > > the Google world) is just about the worst thing I've ever seen.
> > > > Pleasebringbackthe ability tosearchthewebfrom Gmail.- Hide quoted text -

AIN

unread,
Feb 5, 2009, 4:25:02 AM2/5/09
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100% agree, I love gmail simply because I can search email and the web
from the same box.

BRING IT BACK NOW PLEASE!!!

On Feb 4, 8:07 pm, oldmansutton wrote:
> I keep my gmail open all day long, and use it as a launching spot for
> most of my web activities.  This includes using Google to search the
> web.  Up until now, we've had the option to search mail, or search the
> web, and it's been great.  Searchable mail AND the option to search
> Google on the same page, I mean, it's a match made in heaven.  The
> recent subtraction of the "Search the Web" button is leaving me
> scratching my head however.  Why are we removing functionality?  Why
> would a company that is known the world over for its amazing search
> engine, suddenly not include an easy way to use said search engine
> right on one of their flagship products?  The hassle now of having to
> open a new tab/page just to search, while minorly inconvenient, IS
> inconvenient, and is a change I am definitely less than happy about.
> I'm all for adding fuctionality, and I use and love most of the new
> options that have come out of the labs.  But removing one of the
> BIGGEST functional aspects of Gmail (the integration into the rest of
> the Google world) is just about the worst thing I've ever seen.

ssj4Gogeta

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Feb 5, 2009, 5:11:35 AM2/5/09
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We wants to pwnage teh interwebz, so plzzz bring teh buttonz back.

Alliya

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Feb 5, 2009, 7:45:07 AM2/5/09
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Bring back the damn button. Le pout.

On Feb 5, 9:52 am, Huevos wrote:
> I agree with everyone else.  I really miss thesearchbutton.  Please
> bring it back
>
> On Feb 4, 8:42 pm, LisaW wrote:
>
> > Come on Google! This was incredibly convenient. Bring it back!!!!
>
> > On Feb 4, 8:00 pm, Cork_Guy wrote:
>
> > > I refuse to use thenewversionuntil this issue is resolved.
> > > Removing thesearchwebfeature is the stupidest thing ever.
> > > I can't believe google/gmail would shoot itself in the foot like
> > > this!
>
> > > On Feb 4, 7:54 pm, ssj4Gogeta wrote:
>
> > > > Yes, pleaseee bring it back. Why in the world was it removed?
>
> > > > On Feb 5, 1:07 am, oldmansutton wrote:
>
> > > > > I keep my gmail open all day long, and use it as a launching spot for
> > > > > most of mywebactivities.  This includes using Google tosearchthe
> > > > >web.  Up until now, we've had the option tosearchmail, orsearchthe
> > > > >web, and it's been great.  Searchable mail AND the option tosearch
> > > > > Google on the same page, I mean, it's a match made in heaven.  The
> > > > > recent subtraction of the "SearchtheWeb"buttonis leaving me
> > > > > scratching my head however.  Why are we removing functionality?  Why
> > > > > would a company that is known the world over for its amazingsearch
> > > > > engine, suddenly not include an easy way to use saidsearchengine
> > > > > right on one of their flagship products?  The hassle now of having to
> > > > > open anewtab/page just tosearch, while minorly inconvenient, IS

MAMBOLERO

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Feb 5, 2009, 10:27:19 AM2/5/09
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Well said, Gmail-ers! Let Google know just how important the "Search
the Web" option is to you, how you used it, and how unhappy we are
about its removal -- the threads to follow or for filing a complaint
are below. Remember, BE SPECIFIC, the more details, the better:

http://getsatisfaction.com/google/topics/bring_back_the_gmail_search_the_web_option

http://groups.google.com/group/Gmail-Help-Settings-en/t/5d0a9b43c47ff225?hl=en

http://www.google.com/url?url=http://groups.google.com/g/80f7faa1/t/5424b4fa7bfee7e9/d/242a5601aaa3ddf%3Fq%3DGMAIL%2BSEARCH%2BOPTIONS%230242a5601aaa3ddf&ei=pKqJSZiQFYbg-gGL9eSuDA&sa=t&ct=res&cd=5&source=groups&usg=AFQjCNGD9uWVb6z8QAdqLjubUq8jBnkD0A

[Where you are now]
http://groups.google.com/group/gmail-labs-suggest-a-labs-feature/browse_thread/thread/6a665783cd040dc6

Also, you can file a suggestion with Google via this link:

http://mail.google.com/support/bin/static.py?page=suggestions.cs

When you arrive at the page, scroll to the bottom of the page where it
says "I have another idea," choose "Other" from the drop-down list,
and on the first line of your entry entitle it "Bring back the "Search
the Web" option!" (BTW, some IE users may receive a Security
Certificate error when confirming their suggestion; if so, click
continue to web page, and Google will thank you for your suggestion
via an HTTPS page.)

Bring back the "Search the Web" option!

JMB2008

unread,
Feb 5, 2009, 10:27:55 AM2/5/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
Please bring it back, I use this ALL day long in my job, probably 50
times at least. This makes my life very inconvient. Please please
please bring it back.

J

On Feb 4, 8:42 pm, LisaW wrote:
> Come on Google! This was incredibly convenient. Bring it back!!!!
>
> On Feb 4, 8:00 pm, Cork_Guy wrote:
>
>
>
> > I refuse to use the new version until this issue is resolved.
> > Removing thesearchwebfeature is the stupidest thing ever.
> > I can't believe google/gmail would shoot itself in the foot like
> > this!
>
> > On Feb 4, 7:54 pm, ssj4Gogeta wrote:
>
> > > Yes, pleaseee bring it back. Why in the world was it removed?
>
> > > On Feb 5, 1:07 am, oldmansutton wrote:
>
> > > > I keep my gmail open all day long, and use it as a launching spot for
> > > > most of mywebactivities.  This includes using Google tosearchthe
> > > >web.  Up until now, we've had the option tosearchmail, orsearchthe
> > > >web, and it's been great.  Searchable mail AND the option tosearch
> > > > Google on the same page, I mean, it's a match made in heaven.  The
> > > > recent subtraction of the "SearchtheWeb" button is leaving me
> > > > scratching my head however.  Why are we removing functionality?  Why
> > > > would a company that is known the world over for its amazingsearch
> > > > engine, suddenly not include an easy way to use saidsearchengine
> > > > right on one of their flagship products?  The hassle now of having to
> > > > open a new tab/page just tosearch, while minorly inconvenient, IS
> > > > inconvenient, and is a change I am definitely less than happy about.
> > > > I'm all for adding fuctionality, and I use and love most of the new
> > > > options that have come out of the labs.  But removing one of the
> > > > BIGGEST functional aspects of Gmail (the integration into the rest of
> > > > the Google world) is just about the worst thing I've ever seen.
> > > > Please bring back the ability tosearchthewebfrom Gmail.- Hide quoted text -

Chris L.

unread,
Feb 5, 2009, 10:33:12 AM2/5/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
I agree! Bring it back google!

tcbdesign

unread,
Feb 5, 2009, 10:33:45 AM2/5/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
My boss is in his 60's and set in his ways - he was freaking out about
it. I don't use it, but it's affecting me through him and apparently a
lot of other people. Perhaps make it a labs option to have or not have
the search button. Simple to do, no?

Jim Frog

unread,
Feb 5, 2009, 10:53:34 AM2/5/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
I did like the search web button, but it would be even better if users
could type something in the box and hit alt+enter to search web or
just enter to search mail. I think this would be superior to a second
button. So when alt is pushed the search mail button changes to a
search web button.
Just a thought.

rarejule

unread,
Feb 5, 2009, 11:52:02 AM2/5/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
I agree... I am stuck in an older version of IE... please save us
all and bring back Search the Web!!

On Feb 4, 1:56 pm, mh1 wrote:
> I also use this feature all the time and desperately want it back.
>
> Those of us who are stuck with an older version of IE at work don't
> have access to Google Toolbar, the Firefox search bar, or tabbed
> browsing. Plus, our computers are so slow that waiting for a new
> browser window to open is a pain, so we'd rather it open directly to
> our search.
>
> I keep Gmail up all day, so the "Search the Web" button makes it
> infinitely easier to do web searches. I even use it to search for
> websites I want to visit instead of opening a new window and typing in
> the url. Now I just have this miserable feeling every time I type a
> web search into Gmail but then realize that I have to open a new
> window to do what I want to do.
>
> Please bring back "Search the Web"!
>
> On Feb 4, 2:36 pm, uncleSally wrote:
>
>
>
> > Please bring back this useful feature !
>
> > thanks, US
>
> > On Feb 4, 10:41 am, Daizymom wrote:
>
> > > I use it all the time!- Hide quoted text -
>
> > - Show quoted text -- Hide quoted text -

ssj4Gogeta

unread,
Feb 5, 2009, 11:55:27 AM2/5/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
@MAMBOLERO: done.

photoactive

unread,
Feb 5, 2009, 12:19:43 PM2/5/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
Personally I don't miss it. There are so many other ways to search the
web without clicking anything: open a new tab, use a toolbar, use the
Chrome address bar . . . I suspect the reason they may have removed it
is because they worried the interface was looking too cluttered with
the introduction of the extra labels buttons.

SodiumFree

unread,
Feb 5, 2009, 12:25:04 PM2/5/09
to Suggest a Labs feature

Please, please, PLEASE bring back the Search the Web button! I use
Gmail as my home page, and I used the Search the Web button
constantly.

It just boggles my mind that it was removed. Maybe I'm missing
something, but the ONLY argument I've seen for removing it was to
eliminate "clutter." But that just does not make sense to me. It was
on the same line as the Gmail Search button, and now there is just
empty space there. Why not use that space to link to the MAIN GOOGLE
SERVICE?

This reminds me of when NetFlix removed the option to have separate
queues. That change also made me crazy. Luckily, Netflix listened to
its users and brought the feature back. Let's hope Google does the
same.

ssj4Gogeta

unread,
Feb 5, 2009, 12:27:59 PM2/5/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
@photoactive: how do you think the removal of a small button, and that
too at the cost of functionality, can remove clutter?

MAMBOLERO

unread,
Feb 5, 2009, 1:36:31 PM2/5/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
@ ssj4Gogeta -- Ditto! I'll second those motions!

@ photoactive -- READ all the posts here and at the other bring-back-
the-Search-the-Web threads and perhaps you'll realize that "There are
so many other ways to search the web without clicking anything: open a
new tab, use a toolbar, use the Chrome address bar . ." is neither
always an option for many Gmail users, for a variety of reasons both
personal and employment-related, nor is it always preferable, per
individual users' workstyles.

As Gmail's own page touts, "Gmail is a new kind of webmail, built on
the idea that email can be more intuitive, efficient, and useful."

Yeah, what happened to that mission, Google?

@ SodiumFree -- the parallel to NetFlix is great; we can hope! ;-)

Also worth noting, Scott Wilson, an IT exec for IndigoMoon and a
regular blogger for CIO Weblog (read his "Google Gone Bonkers" at
www.cio-weblog.com/50226711/google_gone_bonkers.php) is planning a
follow-up story specifically about our missing "Search the Web"
option. Yippee, love you Scott!!!!

poppajon

unread,
Feb 5, 2009, 1:43:49 PM2/5/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
please bring this back!!! I don't want to have to revert to an older
version of gmail!!!

Nemanach

unread,
Feb 5, 2009, 1:59:46 PM2/5/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
Free "Search the Web"!

Seriously, why would you remove a link that goes to your main product?

KFUZ

unread,
Feb 5, 2009, 3:27:45 PM2/5/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
Please bring it back

A Z

unread,
Feb 5, 2009, 6:46:32 PM2/5/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
Agreed agreed agreed and seconded - DO BRING IT BACK, please please
please. It's so very annoying it's no longer there. Don't quite like
the new buttons' shapes&shades either.

Gbstover25

unread,
Feb 5, 2009, 7:14:58 PM2/5/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
Bring back that Button- it was so intuitive like most other things
"google"

dbvi...@gmail.com

unread,
Feb 5, 2009, 9:38:05 PM2/5/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
Why would you take the button away. You aren't using the space for
something else. If I need to leave Gmail to search, I will use Yahoo
or MSN.

Peter Stindberg

unread,
Feb 6, 2009, 3:36:08 AM2/6/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
I need it back too!

Superglucose

unread,
Feb 6, 2009, 5:20:31 AM2/6/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
Yes please bring this back! Why, why why did you remove it? Why
would you want to remove functionality from your webmail service?

hakamanoir

unread,
Feb 6, 2009, 5:45:33 AM2/6/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
What were Google Gmail guys thinking when they removed the Search Web
button? What a wrong idea!

inomuiro

unread,
Feb 6, 2009, 8:10:46 AM2/6/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
Agreed on with everybody: Bring it back!!

On Feb 5, 2:52 am, Huevos wrote:
> I agree with everyone else. I really miss the search button. Please
> bring it back
>
> On Feb 4, 8:42 pm, LisaW wrote:
>
> > Come on Google! This was incredibly convenient. Bring it back!!!!
>
> > On Feb 4, 8:00 pm, Cork_Guy wrote:
>
> > > I refuse to use the new version until this issue is resolved.
> > > Removing thesearch webfeature is the stupidest thing ever.
> > > I can't believe google/gmail would shoot itself in the foot like
> > > this!
>
> > > On Feb 4, 7:54 pm, ssj4Gogeta wrote:
>
> > > > Yes, pleaseee bring it back. Why in the world was it removed?
>
> > > > On Feb 5, 1:07 am, oldmansutton wrote:
>
> > > > > I keep my gmail open all day long, and use it as a launching spot for
> > > > > most of my web activities. This includes using Google to search the
> > > > > web. Up until now, we've had the option to search mail, or search the
> > > > > web, and it's been great. Searchable mail AND the option to search
> > > > > Google on the same page, I mean, it's a match made in heaven. The
> > > > > recent subtraction of the "Search the Web" button is leaving me
> > > > > scratching my head however. Why are we removing functionality? Why
> > > > > would a company that is known the world over for its amazing search
> > > > > engine, suddenly not include an easy way to use said search engine
> > > > > right on one of their flagship products? The hassle now of having to
> > > > > open a new tab/page just to search, while minorly inconvenient, IS
> > > > > inconvenient, and is a change I am definitely less than happy about.
> > > > > I'm all for adding fuctionality, and I use and love most of the new
> > > > > options that have come out of the labs. But removing one of the
> > > > > BIGGEST functional aspects of Gmail (the integration into the rest of
> > > > > the Google world) is just about the worst thing I've ever seen.

SueBlue

unread,
Feb 6, 2009, 8:13:13 AM2/6/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
I agree - we need the web button back!

amylw...@gmail.com

unread,
Feb 6, 2009, 8:46:35 AM2/6/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
I AM 100 % BEHIND THE MAIL / WEB SEARCH FEATURE. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE
BRING IT BACK.

On Feb 4, 2:56 pm, mh1 wrote:
> I also use this feature all the time and desperately want it back.
>
> Those of us who are stuck with an older version of IE at work don't
> have access to Google Toolbar, the Firefox search bar, or tabbed
> browsing. Plus, our computers are so slow that waiting for a new
> browser window to open is a pain, so we'd rather it open directly to
> our search.
>
> I keep Gmail up all day, so the "Search the Web" button makes it
> infinitely easier to do web searches. I even use it to search for
> websites I want to visit instead of opening a new window and typing in
> the url. Now I just have this miserable feeling every time I type a
> web search into Gmail but then realize that I have to open a new
> window to do what I want to do.
>
> Please bring back "Search the Web"!
>
> On Feb 4, 2:36 pm, uncleSally wrote:
>
>
>
> > Please bring back this useful feature !
>
> > thanks, US
>
> > On Feb 4, 10:41 am, Daizymom wrote:
>
> > > I use it all the time!- Hide quoted text -
>
> > - Show quoted text -- Hide quoted text -

MAMBOLERO

unread,
Feb 6, 2009, 1:40:35 PM2/6/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
Fellow Gmail fans of the "Search the Web" option:

In November 2008, fellow Gmail user and expert commentator on emerging
technologies, Steve Rubel, wrote a thorough and excellent essay,
"Making Gmail Your Gateway to the Web." In it, he articulates
beautifully what many of us have tried to express about the value we
gain from the "Search the Web" option and how he integrates
(errr...make that "integrated" for the moment) Gmail -- WITH the
"Search the Web" option -- into a powerhouse tool for running and
organizing his business and communications.

If you are an employee of Google reading this thread, among the
doubters about "Search the Web" and its usefulness, or among its
supporters, you will find his vivid demonstration enlightening:

www.micropersuasion.com/2008/11/makin...

Google, bring back the "Search the Web" option!

Gary T<><

unread,
Feb 6, 2009, 3:19:06 PM2/6/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
I brought it back myself! Just click "Older Version" at the top of
the page.

I fooled around with this new format for a while and didn't like a lot
about it. Mainly the lack of a web search button. Also, a pain to
bring back a valid email from the trash after accidentally deleting
it. Not very intuitive compared to previous version. I had to back
out of the email and click the check box from the main trash folder to
be able to have the option of returning it to the inbox.

ssj4Gogeta

unread,
Feb 6, 2009, 4:25:02 PM2/6/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
@Gary T<><: After you delete an email, you get a small message on top
telling you that message has been deleted. It also has the link to
undo it. (I'm talking about the message that appears in yellow
background).

jpott...@gmail.com

unread,
Feb 6, 2009, 4:48:03 PM2/6/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
I agree. I use "search the web" from gmail it all the time. It's
extremely convenient. Bring it back!!! Please!!

geberhard

unread,
Feb 6, 2009, 6:56:05 PM2/6/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
Just noticed today, and totally sucks that teh search the web button
is missing was a great tool. I can not believe that Google woudl
remove such a great feature. Any way to offer it as an option in
setting for those of us that want to re-enable it?

Please bring back "search the web" a lot of user woudl appreciaet,
including ones that do not have the time to go through the ordeeal to
find this forum and post here :D

ssj4Gogeta

unread,
Feb 6, 2009, 11:11:51 PM2/6/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
/bump

Robd

unread,
Feb 7, 2009, 6:27:49 AM2/7/09
to Suggest a Labs feature

This has been frustrating me all week, glad to see its not just me.
Why on earth would you get rid of one of the best parts or Gmail?
bring it back please!!!

bal

unread,
Feb 7, 2009, 8:18:29 AM2/7/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
What you don't realize is that it's Google's evil plan to
measure how user frustration affects behavior. It has
nothing at all to do with the button itself. This is why
the "labs" brings cool features only to take them away
once the "experiment" is run.

You may have been under the misaprehension that
"labs" referred to experiments with features. Such is
mistaken. The "labs" refers to the lab rats, i.e., we
users.

There is no other reasonable explanation for the
removal of the Search Web button or for no
implementation of folders, or the myriad of other
requests many users have made here.

Shrewit

unread,
Feb 7, 2009, 8:47:12 AM2/7/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
I used the web search button all the time. It was the most convenient
way to search for me. The integrated search button in the toolbar
inevitably closes out whatever window I'm using. Please bring back the
search web button! I cannot fathom why it's easier or smarter to not
have a web search right there. Were too many people hitting the wrong
button??? Help!

Hkatt

unread,
Feb 7, 2009, 9:56:01 AM2/7/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
Hey! I've had experience with hitting the wrong button but I never
blamed it on the interface! That would be a silly reason to remove it
completely anyway. This is a feature I used a lot. I can't say it was
the only way for me to do a Google Search but it was definitely the
most convenient.

Please bring back the Search the Web button.

satishev

unread,
Feb 7, 2009, 10:35:24 AM2/7/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
Absolutely agree, I was just getting used to using Gmail as my command
center for the web.

antechno777

unread,
Feb 8, 2009, 12:42:33 PM2/8/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
Joining the chorus: I have Gbar and firefox box, but I still used the
search button while it existed. It is more convenient, please put it
back!

Thiago Paulino

unread,
Feb 9, 2009, 1:12:00 PM2/9/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
I need this button back!!!

Hkatt

unread,
Feb 9, 2009, 3:43:03 PM2/9/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
Ok.

Could someone from Google please at least explain why it was removed?

I'D LIKE TO HAVE IT BACK THOUGH! :)

Strebor

unread,
Feb 9, 2009, 6:41:45 PM2/9/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
I agree!!! it is very very helpful...

On Feb 6, 4:20 am, Superglucose wrote:
> Yesplease bringthis back!  Why, why why did you remove it?  Why
> would you want to remove functionality from your webmail service?
>
> On Feb 4, 11:56 am, mh1 wrote:
>
> > I also use this feature all the time and desperately want it back.
>
> > Those of us who are stuck with an older version of IE at work don't
> > have access to Google Toolbar, the Firefox search bar, or tabbed
> > browsing. Plus, our computers are so slow that waiting for a new
> > browser window to open is a pain, so we'd rather it open directly to
> > our search.
>
> > I keep Gmail up all day, so the "Search the Web" button makes it
> > infinitely easier to do web searches. I even use it to search for
> > websites I want to visit instead of opening a new window and typing in
> > the url. Now I just have this miserable feeling every time I type a
> > web search into Gmail but then realize that I have to open a new
> > window to do what I want to do.
>
> >Please bringback"Searchthe Web"!
>
> > On Feb 4, 2:36 pm, uncleSally wrote:
>
> > >Please bringbackthis useful feature !

Strebor

unread,
Feb 9, 2009, 6:43:42 PM2/9/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
I agree. It is a very nice, helpful feature.

On Feb 6, 4:20 am, Superglucose wrote:
> Yesplease bringthis back!  Why, why why did you remove it?  Why
> would you want to remove functionality from your webmail service?
>
> On Feb 4, 11:56 am, mh1 wrote:
>
> > I also use this feature all the time and desperately want it back.
>
> > Those of us who are stuck with an older version of IE at work don't
> > have access to Google Toolbar, the Firefox search bar, or tabbed
> > browsing. Plus, our computers are so slow that waiting for a new
> > browser window to open is a pain, so we'd rather it open directly to
> > our search.
>
> > I keep Gmail up all day, so the "Search the Web" button makes it
> > infinitely easier to do web searches. I even use it to search for
> > websites I want to visit instead of opening a new window and typing in
> > the url. Now I just have this miserable feeling every time I type a
> > web search into Gmail but then realize that I have to open a new
> > window to do what I want to do.
>
> >Please bringback"Searchthe Web"!
>
> > On Feb 4, 2:36 pm, uncleSally wrote:
>
> > >Please bringbackthis useful feature !

Gemma G

unread,
Feb 10, 2009, 3:48:35 AM2/10/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
I don't really miss it at home.. but 40 hours a week I am stuck with
IE version 6, with no toolbars, and no option to change my homepage
from our company page. This button was super useful for being able to
search the web easily at work.

On Feb 5, 6:19 pm, photoactive wrote:
> Personally I don't miss it. There are so many other ways to search the
> web without clicking anything: open a new tab, use a toolbar, use the
> Chrome address bar . . . I suspect the reason they may have removed it
> is because they worried the interface was looking too cluttered with
> the introduction of the extra labels buttons.
>
> On Feb 5, 4:52 pm, rarejule wrote:
>
>
>
> > I agree...   I am stuck in an older version of IE...  please save us
> > all and bring back Search the Web!!
>
> > On Feb 4, 1:56 pm, mh1 wrote:
>
> > > I also use this feature all the time and desperately want it back.
>
> > > Those of us who are stuck with an older version of IE at work don't
> > > have access to Google Toolbar, the Firefox search bar, or tabbed
> > > browsing. Plus, our computers are so slow that waiting for a new
> > > browser window to open is a pain, so we'd rather it open directly to
> > > our search.
>
> > > I keep Gmail up all day, so the "Search the Web" button makes it
> > > infinitely easier to do web searches. I even use it to search for
> > > websites I want to visit instead of opening a new window and typing in
> > > the url. Now I just have this miserable feeling every time I type a
> > > web search into Gmail but then realize that I have to open a new
> > > window to do what I want to do.
>
> > > Please bring back "Search the Web"!
>
> > > On Feb 4, 2:36 pm, uncleSally wrote:
>
> > > > Please bring back this useful feature !
>
> > > > thanks, US
>
> > > > On Feb 4, 10:41 am, Daizymom wrote:
>
> > > > > I use it all the time!- Hide quoted text -
>
> > > > - Show quoted text -- Hide quoted text -
>
> > > - Show quoted text -- Hide quoted text -

Angus

unread,
Feb 10, 2009, 6:53:38 AM2/10/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
If they were going to remove it, the least they could have done was to
give us the option of putting it back in GMail Labs.
I love everything about Google and this is the first time I've been
able to say this but sombody there is a right Plonker!

Angus
On Feb 5, 1:52 am, Huevos wrote:
> I agree with everyone else.  I really miss thesearchbutton.  Please
> bring it back
>
> On Feb 4, 8:42 pm, LisaW wrote:
>
> > Come onGoogle! This was incredibly convenient. Bring it back!!!!
>
> > On Feb 4, 8:00 pm, Cork_Guy wrote:
>
> > > I refuse to use the new version until this issue is resolved.
> > > Removing thesearchweb feature is the stupidest thing ever.
> > > I can't believegoogle/gmail would shoot itself in the foot like
> > > this!
>
> > > On Feb 4, 7:54 pm, ssj4Gogeta wrote:
>
> > > > Yes, pleaseee bring it back. Why in the world was it removed?
>
> > > > On Feb 5, 1:07 am, oldmansutton wrote:
>
> > > > > I keep my gmail open all day long, and use it as a launching spot for
> > > > > most of my web activities.  This includes usingGoogletosearchthe
> > > > > web.  Up until now, we've had the option tosearchmail, orsearchthe
> > > > > web, and it's been great.  Searchable mail AND the option tosearch
> > > > >Googleon the same page, I mean, it's a match made in heaven.  The
> > > > > recent subtraction of the "Searchthe Web" button is leaving me
> > > > > scratching my head however.  Why are we removing functionality?  Why
> > > > > would a company that is known the world over for its amazingsearch
> > > > > engine, suddenly not include an easy way to use saidsearchengine
> > > > > right on one of their flagship products?  The hassle now of having to
> > > > > open a new tab/page just tosearch, while minorly inconvenient, IS
> > > > > inconvenient, and is a change I am definitely less than happy about.
> > > > > I'm all for adding fuctionality, and I use and love most of the new
> > > > > options that have come out of the labs.  But removing one of the
> > > > > BIGGEST functional aspects of Gmail (the integration into the rest of
> > > > > theGoogleworld) is just about the worst thing I've ever seen.

Petah1

unread,
Feb 10, 2009, 8:09:10 AM2/10/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
Please Google-Friends!

We need this feature!

Julie Baber >,

unread,
Feb 10, 2009, 10:58:07 AM2/10/09
to Suggest a Labs feature
Please bring it back. PLEASE.
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