Tech giant Google has taken a major step towards integrating blockchain into its search engine. Users can now directly access details of transactions carried out on the Bitcoin network, as well as on five EVM blockchain networks, i.e. those compatible with the Ethereum technological standard.
Democratizing access to decentralized data: Google integrates blockchain transactions
Google extended the capabilities of its search engine to encompass blockchain data from Bitcoin as well as from five EVM-compatible networks: Arbitrum, Avalanche, Optimism, Polygon and Fantom. This strategic initiative aims to make blockchain information accessible to the general public, by integrating it directly into search results.
Previously, this data was relegated to specialized blockchain explorers, creating a barrier to entry for uninitiated users. By indexing this information, Google considerably simplifies interaction with blockchains. Users can now instantly access transaction details and blockchain data with a simple address search democratizing information and reducing barriers to adoption.
The gradual evolution of blockchain integration by Google shows its commitment to this field. Last year, the company had already introduced this feature for Ethereum which can be used to query specific public addresses.
Last week, Google has further enhanced this by integrating the Ethereum Name Service (ENS). Now, a simple address search instantly displays wallet balances and the timestamp of the last transaction.
Three Bitcoin address formats are supported by Google
Choosing Bitcoin and the five EVM networks testifies to the thoughtful approach of Google. Bitcoin, the first and best-known cryptocurrency, was an obvious choice for initial inclusion. Three Bitcoin address formats are supported: P2PKH, P2SH and Bech32.. However, the availability of this functionality does not yet appear to be universal for all users.
As for the selected EVM networks, they represent some of the most dynamic and innovative platforms in the fields of decentralized finance (DeFi) and non-fungible tokens (NFT). Arbitrum, Avalanche, Optimism, Polygon and Fantomthe latter being the most recent addition of note, are the five main EVM-compatible channels covered by Google.
Integration by Google of Bitcoin transaction explorers and these five major EVM networks in its search results marks a turning point in mainstream crypto adoption and makes blockchain data more accessible than ever.
As a journalist at Coinpri, I’ve been captivated by the world of bitcoin and blockchain since 2020. The decentralized aspect of Bitcoin particularly piqued my interest. Since then, I’ve been working constantly to spread my knowledge, hoping one day to see a world where everyone fully enjoys their financial freedom.
