Introduction
If you’re a South African internet user, you’ve probably noticed that google.co.za now redirects to google.com. While this may seem like a minor change, it has sparked confusion among users who rely on localized Google search results in South Africa. In this blog, we’ll explore why Google is redirecting google.co.za, what it means for your search experience, and how it affects local SEO in South Africa
What Is google.co.za?
Before the redirect, google.co.za was Google’s dedicated South African domain. It provided:
- Localized search results
- South African news and trending topics
- Tailored language support (like Afrikaans, isiZulu, and others)
Why Is google.co.za Redirecting to google.com?
There are several strategic reasons behind Google’s decision to redirect users from google.co.za to google.com:
1. Unified Search Experience
Since 2017, Google has shifted its focus from domain-based search results to location-based search results. This means:
No matter which Google domain you visit, your search results are now based on your location — not the domain extension.
2. Simplified Infrastructure
Maintaining hundreds of country-specific domains is resource-intensive. Redirecting to google.com allows Google to streamline its infrastructure and deliver a consistent experience across the globe.
3. Improved Privacy and Compliance
A single domain helps Google ensure better compliance with data privacy laws, including POPIA in South Africa, GDPR in Europe, and others.
How Does This Affect South African Users?
While the domain has changed, your search experience hasn’t. Google still uses your:
- IP address
- Language preferences
- Device location
…to deliver locally relevant search results.
In fact, you’re still seeing South African content — just through google.com instead of google.co.za.
It helped businesses and users find region-specific content and services more efficiently.
How to Set Your Region in Google
If you feel your results aren’t as localized as before, follow these steps:
- Go to www.google.com/preferences
- Scroll down to Region Settings
- Select South Africa
- Click Save
This ensures you continue receiving content most relevant to your location.
Impact on South African SEO
1. No Negative Impact on Local SEO
Businesses worried about South African SEO rankings need not panic. Google’s algorithm still delivers local results based on:
- Your Google Business Profile
- NAP consistency (Name, Address, Phone)
- Geotagged content
- User location data
2. Use of .co.za Domains Still Matters
Although google.co.za redirects to google.com, having a .co.za domain still builds trust with local audiences. Google continues to favor regional TLDs for local business visibility.
Will This Change Back?
At this stage, it’s unlikely that Google will reverse this decision. The move aligns with Google’s long-term strategy of centralized search delivery with personalized local results.
Conclusion
While the redirection of google.co.za to google.com might feel like a small digital shake-up, it’s part of Google’s evolution to simplify and unify the user experience globally. Rest assured — if you’re in South Africa, you’re still getting South African search results, just served up through a different URL.
For South African businesses, local SEO is as important as ever. Focus on optimizing your Google Business Profile, using relevant keywords like “web design Cape Town” or “best IT services Johannesburg”, and staying consistent with your contact details.