Wikipedia’s mobile app is the cure for my Google frustrations

Last night, I was casually wondering (as you do) which songs from Scottish electronic duo Boards of Canada’s seminal debut album, Music is a right for children Use audio samples from Sesame Street? It’s the sort of idle fact-checking that humans in the 21st century are blessed to indulge in, and so (as you do), I whipped out my smartphone to Google it.

Thirty seconds later, it was too late. I decided to download the Wikipedia app instead.

This isn’t a new problem. This is something that many people have noticed. slow degradation of Google’s search in recent years, partly a result of macro changes to the web’s structure and partly Google’s own fault for relentlessly privileging its own ads and services. This is what happened in this case: I couldn’t find the album I wanted when I searched.

Only thenDid I get the result I desired? Wikipedia is itself. (Turns into that Sesame Street samples are used on several tracks including “The Color of the Fire” and “Aquarius.” Neat!)

I know, I know. This is not a difficult journey nor a problem. I was overwhelmed by my endless privilege and desire to have instant access to trivial information, so this scrolling mission got me very upset. It got me thinking about why I was even bothering to Google this stuff. Why not eliminate the middleman?

I downloaded Wikipedia and I recommend it wholeheartedly.

It’s not just that Google search on mobile is bad (it is) or that Google shouldn’t be rewarded for its monopoly position (it shouldn’t); it’s also that the Wikipedia app is… kinda fun, particularly if you’re a nerd with an affinity for factoids. I don’t know about you, but give me a few beers and next to no provocation, and I will loudly declaim to whoever will listen that Wikipedia is actually one of the true wonders of the internet: an honest-to-goodness gift to humanity that, despite its numerous failings, provides exponentially more utility than harm in this shabby, fallible world of ours. In fact, when I think about it, much of what I consider to be “good” or “useful” about “technology” or “modern life” essentially boils down to “having access to Wikipedia all the time.” So why not make that easier?

Of course, there are lots of areas in which Google will continue to reign supreme — for destinations, news, and vague searches for things you half remember, but for a certain set of use cases, Wikipedia is just faster and more convenient. It also makes it easier to use my phone’s time. What’s this, I ask, as I open up the app. Is this your picture of the day? Don’t mind if I do. Ohhh, and what about a top five most-read articles list? Send ‘em my way. AndIs there a map feature with nearby article subjects? Wikipedia, please, with your little live compass icons that direct you to nearby locations, you’re really spoiling us.

All of this is to say Wikipedia on your smartphone is great. You should download it. Google is getting worse. Don’t reward it. Keep it up with knowledge keepers, and away from the middlemen. You can get Wikipedia for your phone here iOS AndroidNever look back.