google in 1998
By Alex╺
- PS4
- PS5
- XBox One
- Series X
- PC
Google in 1998 takes users back to the search engine’s earliest design. Created for Google’s 15th anniversary in 2013, this Easter egg allows anyone to experience the original 1998 interface.
By typing “Google in 1998” into the search bar, users can see how the platform looked when Larry Page and Sergey Brin launched it at Stanford University.
Experiencing the Original Google Interface
The Google in 1998 offers a faithful recreation of the old search results page. It features:
| Feature | Description |
| Classic Logo | Google logo with an exclamation mark, as it appeared in 1998 |
| Search Options | Links for “Stanford Search” and “Linux Search” |
| Copyright | Notice displaying “©1998 Google Inc.” |
| Layout | Simple HTML layout typical of the late 1990s web design |
This design emphasizes simplicity, reflecting the limited graphics and HTML capabilities of the time. Unlike modern Google, the focus was purely on function rather than style.
Activation and How It Works
To activate Google in 1998, simply enter the phrase in Google’s search bar and press Enter. Enhanced versions online allow users to access the homepage within a simulated Internet Explorer 4.0 window.
This setup uses pixelated fonts and old browser styles to provide a realistic experience of the 1998 web environment.
Comparing 1998 to Today
The 1998 interface highlights the evolution of search technology. Key differences include:
- Text-only results compared to today’s rich media content
- Static homepage versus today’s dynamic, personalized layout
- Limited search tools versus the comprehensive features now available
Google in 1998 showcased the platform’s minimalist philosophy, which still influences modern design principles.
Educational and Historical Significance
This Easter egg is more than nostalgia. It preserves internet history and demonstrates early web design practices. Users can study how search engines function and how web development has changed over time.
The first Google Doodle, created in 1998 for the Burning Man festival, also appears in this interface, adding historical context.
Conclusion
Google in 1998 is a digital snapshot of the search engine’s beginnings. It provides a simple yet insightful look at how Google started as a research project at Stanford and evolved into a global technology leader.
For enthusiasts and learners alike, it is a reminder of the web’s journey from simple HTML pages to today’s advanced search platforms.
