How to Bring Back the ‘View Image’ Button on Google’s Image Search

ByJim Miller

Yesterday, Google made a significant change to its Image Search feature by removing the “View Image” button. This decision came as a result of a partnership deal with Getty Images, with the aim of addressing copyright infringement concerns. While the removal of the button may seem inconvenient for some, there are still ways to bring it back and regain the functionality you once enjoyed.

Browser Extensions

One of the simplest ways to bring back the “View Image” button is by using browser extensions. If you are a Chrome user, you can install the “View Image” or “Google Search ‘View Image' Button” extension from the Chrome Web Store. These extensions will restore the button to its former position, allowing you to view full-size images with a single click. Additionally, the “View Image” extension can also enable the “Search by Image” feature for finding similar images on Google.

If you prefer Firefox, you can use the “View Image” add-on, which serves the same purpose. However, if these extensions are ever removed from the Chrome or Firefox stores, you can try using the open-source browser extension called “Make Google Image Search Great Again,” which can be found on GitHub. This extension ensures that you can continue using the “View Image” button even if it is no longer officially supported.

Use Another Search Engine

Google may be the most popular search engine, but it's not the only one available. Startpage is a search engine that prioritizes privacy and security. By conducting an image search on Startpage, you'll find the familiar “View Image” button, accompanied by a privacy warning. Another alternative is Bing, Microsoft's search engine, which still offers the “View Image” button in its search results. Bing has gained a reputation as a reliable image search engine, and you can even download the Bing mobile app for a seamless experience.

Wrapping Up

The removal of the “View Image” button may have inconvenienced some users, but there are viable solutions to bring it back. Browser extensions and alternative search engines offer ways to regain the functionality you desire. Whether you choose to install a browser extension or explore other search engines, you can still access full-size images without hassle. So, why not try out these options and bring back the convenience of the “View Image” button on Google's Image Search?