What Has Happened To The Google Search Page?

[anotheoldgit]

I have the Google search page as my home page.

It still comes up with the Google coloured letters plus the "Google search" and "I'm feeling lucky" buttons, but recently when I enter the first letter of my search request in the box, the original page disappears and it reverts to a small search box at the top of the screen along with the normal magnify glass search button.

Could anyone please explain this problem?

[TheChair]

Sounds like you have Google Instant Search enabled. (Google starts searching as soon as you start typing, rather than waiting for you to type an entire question and click the button). Most people prefer this (it's much more efficient), but you can turn it off.

At the bottom right of the Google home page, click Settings
Click Search Settings
Under Google Instant Predictions, select Never show instant results.

[TheChair]

Oops!
After doing the above, you need to scroll down and click Save

[Buenchico]

I've just tried it and found the same as ANO.

I've then tried TheChair's solution and it does, indeed, work. However it relies on placing a cookie on your computer; if, like me, you delete all cookies at the end of every session, the 'small box' behaviour will keep returning.

However, ANO, I'm completely mystified as to why should ever need to use the Google search page anyway. (That was my first visit to it for years). Your previous posts suggest that you use Firefox. If so, it's far more efficient to use the search box at the top right of your page (which, by default, uses Google anyway but also allows you to search other sites if you prefer).

[anotheoldgit]

Thank you both very much for your most useful and informative suggestions.