Google phases out local domains with unified Search URL rollout

For years, if you searched in Japan, you probably typed in google.co.jp. In Germany? google.de. But that era is officially coming to a close. Google is rolling out a unified Google Search URL for users worldwide—just plain old google.com, no matter where you are.

Why? Turns out, those old country-coded domains were mostly a shortcut for delivering localized results. Google used them as a way to give users relevant info depending on where they were. But now, that’s not really necessary. Search has gotten smarter. It knows where you are, even without a special domain.

Despite what it sounds like, this unified Google Search URL doesn’t mean your search results will be any less local. Google says the system now pulls your location from other signals, so whether you’re looking up the best curry in Kuala Lumpur or train times in Tokyo, you’ll still get results that make sense for your location.

What’s actually changing is under the hood. Instead of maintaining dozens of versions of the same site, Google can focus everything under one roof, making it easier to manage, update, and (let’s be real) track.

If you’re noticing a few things off in your search experience—like your results showing up in the wrong language—Google says that’s expected for some users. You might need to re-enter your search preferences. That’s about as disruptive as this gets.

But otherwise? It’s the same Google you’ve been using all this time. Just without the extra letters at the end of the URL. Google says that the change is “rolling out over the coming months.” It’s already started for some users, and eventually, everyone will be on board.