As I write this post, Google is holding an event detailing their operating system called “Google Chrome OS,” in which absolutely everything is stored in the cloud. While sitting in the front row of this event, Danny Sullivan of Search Engine Land somehow managed to post a mini-bombshell feature covering another big change for Google in 2010–a change that will ultimately effect every web user: a new Google Search interface. Read on for a sneak peek

Without further adieu:

Depending on where your eyes naturally go (and I’m sure Google has considered this), you’ll probably notice changes immediately. What I notice first is the new left pane.

Left Navigation

On the left is a group of filtering options that offer many of the same options that are available today via the “Show Options” link. With the new design, Google has put more thought (and real estate) into these “modes” of search. After extensive testing, Google and its search team agreed that a three column design provided the user with the best experience. The three column design is not new for search. Bing and Ask.com both utilize the three pane approach.

This new left column provides a more intuitive way to navigate through results than the current solution. Currently I have to either open up the “Show Options” pane or head up to the top navigation (which now becomes somewhat redundant) to switch between “modes.”

The new left pane also contains suggestions, date filtering, and additional search tools, which would likely send the user to tools like the wonder wheel, image spin, fast flip, etc.

The big question about this new addition is how it will influence users on smaller screens and mobile devices. Marissa Mayer, Google’s VP of Search Product and User Experience, states that changing the feel of desktop results is the first step, and believes the left navigation will not impact how users interact with the search results in the middle pane.

As for that redundant top navigation bar, Mayer says the team will revisit its approach next year, though they’re all pretty happy about how users interact with it in its current state.

Search Bar and Logo

Another rather significant change can be seen in the top 15% of the screen.

The search button is now found within the search bar and sports a more eye-catching blue design. Google’s goal here is almost certainly to encourage more new searches and filtering. After all, every new search is another chance for a user to click on a paid advertisement. On an eCommerce site we optimize elements to keep the user on site, increasing metrics like time on site or average number of pageviews in an effort to create more opportunity to grab that conversion. Google’s strategy here is not much different at all.

A longer search bar and larger, softer colored Google logo are a reaction to the changing landscape of its users’ computers. Larger, brighter screens provide Google with more real estate with which to make their mark.

Google Responding to Competition

You’d have to go back pretty far to find a change this substantial to Google’s flagship product. With Bing making strides and social networks dominating user’s habits, Google is making efforts to stay ahead of the curve. Danny Sullivan reports that the new SERP will go live to around 3% of Google’s users tonight, with a full roll out early in the new year, assuming all goes well with testing.