Google Search Just Got More Visual: Now Showing Both Short and Long Videos

In today’s fast-paced digital world, Google is constantly evolving to meet users where they are—and now, that includes your favorite video formats. Whether you’re searching for a quick tip or a deep dive tutorial, Google has begun integrating both short and long videos directly into the search results. This marks a major shift in how we discover and consume content online.

What's New?

You may have already noticed this change: when you search for certain topics—especially “how to” queries or trending discussions—Google now displays a mix of short-form videos (like those from YouTube Shorts, TikTok, and Instagram Reels) and traditional long-form videos in the search panel.

This means that you no longer have to sift through text-heavy articles or scroll endlessly through unrelated videos. Instead, Google delivers a curated blend of formats to fit your preference and time constraints.

Why This Matters

1. Better User Experience

Not everyone has the time (or desire) to watch a 10-minute tutorial. Sometimes, a 30-second short video is all you need. Google’s integration of short videos allows users to get quick answers without leaving the search page.

2. Diverse Content Discovery

Shorts are now part of the content mix, right alongside traditional videos and blog posts. This allows creators to reach broader audiences and helps users discover voices and formats they might not otherwise encounter.

3. Mobile-First Thinking

Most short video content is designed for mobile, and Google’s update reflects how people are increasingly searching and consuming content on their phones. These video previews load quickly and are optimized for mobile-friendly viewing.

What This Means for Content Creators

If you’re a creator, this change opens up a valuable new opportunity. Short-form video content can now rank in search results, giving you more visibility than ever before. It also means that SEO strategies now need to account for video length, platform compatibility, and even vertical video formatting.

To take advantage of this:

Make sure your videos are properly tagged and include relevant keywords.

Create a mix of short and long-form content tailored to the search behavior of your target audience.

Use platforms like YouTube Shorts, TikTok, and Instagram Reels—but ensure you optimize titles and descriptions for search engines.

Final Thoughts

Google’s latest update confirms what many have already seen coming: video is king, and its formats are more varied and accessible than ever. Whether you’re a business trying to connect with customers or a casual user looking for a quick answer, the new video-rich search experience makes information faster, easier, and more engaging to find.

Keep an eye on this space, because the way we search is changing, one video at a time.