If you searched for something on Google today, you may have noticed something different, such as a new drop-down menu of search tools. This is the latest in Google's changes to how query results are displayed and how its search engine works.

Google's redesign was first noticed by TechCrunch, which noted that the major difference is the results are now vertical. Rather than having the search tools taking up space on a sidebar, they are now located directly under the search field.

The search engine has already started showing an automatic text box in the right side bar if users hovered over a result or searched for a well-known person, place, or thing. For example, a query on San Francisco fills the right side bar with a Google Map, city stats, upcoming events, photos and points of interest, such as Alcatraz and Golden Gate Bridge.

Over the last couple of years, Google has been working on a major overhaul of its search engine. Coining it the "next generation of search," Google is aiming to provide users with more relevant results that better match queries with people, places and things. Google search executive Amit Singhal told The Wall Street Journal in March that the new search will look more like "how humans understand the world."

Google rolled out two other new features over the past couple of days -- a scientific calculator that pops up when users type a calculation in the search box and Google Handwrite that lets users write letters with their fingers on a touch-screen device instead of tapping on the keyboard.

CNET contacted Google for more information on the redesign and we'll update the story when we hear back.