In a recent development, it has been noted that by the end of 2024, certain users attempting to search for Google with disconnected JavaScript found themselves being redirected to a page with a request to enable JavaScript in their browsers. This redirection was occurring at a link like https://www.google.com/httpService/retry/enablejs. Subsequently, in January 2025, the selective testing of this ban on users without JavaScript came to an end and the restriction was broadened to encompass all users, effectively closing several loopholes.
Prior to this extension, users had found ways to bypass the JavaScript requirement. For instance, individuals could still access the search engine from browsers lacking JavaScript by modifying their user-agent to Lynx or an older version of Firefox (specifically, versions no newer than 23). However, it has now been reported that these workarounds are no longer effective. Users are now met with pages that demand the enabling of JavaScript or prompt them to update their outdated browsers, irrespective of their user-agent settings.