Some Google Search users unable to access Google Maps from search results page, issue under investigation

Google Search users across Europe are facing a peculiar glitch that hides the usual direct link to Google Maps from search results. When searching for locations, the “Maps” option that would normally launch the full-screen map experience has vanished for some users. It’s now tucked away in the “All Filters” menu, and even then, clicking “Maps” sometimes fails to launch Google Maps as expected, instead displaying only a slightly larger map version.

The issue primarily affects desktop users (1,2,3,4,5,6) and has sparked speculation about its connection to the EU’s new Digital Markets Act (DMA). The DMA aims to increase competition and user choice in the tech sector, requiring companies like Google to avoid self-preferencing their own services in search results and app stores. It’s possible these changes are responsible for the Maps glitch, intended to offer users alternatives to Google Maps for their searches.

While the DMA is coming into effect from this month, there have been reports of Google Maps missing in search results page for a few months now, some dating back to early this year. If true, it’s possible Google has been rolling out the changes gradually that’s why some people are only noting them now, but this isn’t confirmed yet.

Despite the frustration experienced by users, there is a glimmer of hope. A product expert in the Google community forum has confirmed that Google is actively investigating the matter. This suggests that the issue may be attributed to a glitch rather than a deliberate change in functionality. However, there is currently no indication of when a fix will be implemented or what exactly is causing the glitch.

There are a number of user reports of being unable to access Google Maps from the desktop Google Search results page. This issue is being investigated by the Google Search team.

While it could also simply be a temporary bug, a connection to the DMA regulations seems plausible. Our attempts to reproduce the glitch were futile since none of our staff is in Europe at the moment. Search results still include the “Maps” option and clicking on it opens the full Google Maps experience on desktop. I also have the same experience on mobile, although I didn’t see any reports coming from smartphone users.

Unfortunately, there’s no workaround for the change. European Google Search users frustrated by the missing “Maps” link in search results will have to wait and see whether this is a permanent adjustment under the DMA or a glitch in need of fixing.