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I’ve noticed the inverse: when I replaced the Chrome new tab page with a custom .html file, I suddenly found myself using Google Search much less, using Google
by twhb 5y ago
I’ve noticed the inverse: when I replaced the Chrome new tab page with a custom .html file, I suddenly found myself using Google Search much less, using Google URL suggestions much less, and syncing less data to Google servers. The difference between a useless new tab page and a decent one had a real impact on my habits.
Similarly, when I switched from Google Maps to Apple Maps, the favorites UI was enough better that I started using it more and relying on search less.
There’s definitely a pattern of Google underperforming in ways that make you fall back on Google Search, sending Google data, and viewing Google ads.
- rednalexa 5y agoWhat did you replace your tab homepage with? Anything in particular to call out?
- twhb 5y agoI wrote my own local .html file, in a local unpackaged extension for Chrome to accept it. It was just four columns of links with favicons and multiple headings per column, and inline inputs to quickly search different sites, and modifier-less keyboard shortcuts like “h” so that you could hit Ctrl-T H to go to HN. The trick, if you can call it that, was that the layout was clear enough that you could pick between 30-50 options in a second or two once you’re used to it. I considered polishing it for publication, but I think that what made it so good for me is I made it specific to my needs. Besides, I’m off Chrome now, and they fixed the bug I was using to steal focus from the URL bar to make shortcuts work.
- rednalexa 5y agoCool, I think I understand what you mean - sounds like a neat experience. I didn't know that was possible. Thanks for the explanation!