User Experience: Google Search Forces Localized Results Despite English Queries
By
jeanlucas
Hand-rolled, kettle-boiled, baked to perfection. Worth every minute at the bakery.
Summary
A user shares their frustration with Google's search localization behavior, where the search engine ignores English search queries and forces localized results based on geographic location. The user, a Spanish native living in Japan, explains they never want Japanese language results but are fine with Spanish results. Their workaround solution is to use a VPN to route traffic through English-speaking countries like the UK, though they note this is a mediocre solution that requires frequent switching between locations due to geo-blocking issues.
Key quotes
· 5 pulledI have the same problem and my 'solution' is mediocre, but kind of works: use a VPN.
I used to set it to the UK, but since the recent developments I've been experimenting with other English-speaking countries.
My native language is Spanish, but I live in Japan, and it's odd because I never want Japanese (language) results, but I am fine with Spanish results.
Some times I need to switch to Spain, or Japan, or just disable it due to geo blocking.
I use Mullvad, which makes this easier, but TBH the main practical use of my VPN is what you mention, I never want results in Japanese and Google is
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