Ask Jeeves was among the first internet search engines to launch back in 1996, two years before Google (in 1998).

Visitors to the search engine were greeted with the iconic butler character, known as ‘Jeeves’.

Ask Jeeves was rebranded in February 2006, changing its name to Ask.com.

Ask.com shuts down after 30 years

Now, after 30 years, Ask.com has shut down (effective as of May 1, 2026).

The website says: “Every great search must come to an end.

“As IAC continues to sharpen its focus, we have made the decision to discontinue our search business, which includes Ask.com.

“After 30 years of answering the world’s questions, Ask.com officially closed on May 1, 2026.

“We are deeply grateful to the brilliant engineers, designers, and teams who built and supported Ask over the decades.

“And to you—the millions of users who turned to us for answers in a rapidly changing world—thank you for your endless curiosity, your loyalty, and your trust.

“Jeeves’ spirit endures.”

Ask.com shut down on May 1, 2026. (Image: Ask.com)

“End of an era” – Internet users saddened by Jeeves’ “retirement”

The closure of Ask.com has hit users hard, with some labelling it the “end of an era”.

One person, posting on the Reddit group r/technology, said: “Ask Jeeves. Such an OG. Enjoy retirement.”

Another added: “Oh man. End of an era.”

A third user commented: “It’s actually quite amazing the staying power some of these early internet giants despite having fallen out of relevance decades ago. RIP, Jeeves.”

This person posted: “This was the first search engine I ever used when I first came online. Thank you for your service.”

While another fan wrote: “Nooooo, not Jeeves. What’s next, Alta Vista?”

Do you remember Ask Jeeves? Will you miss the search engine now that it’s shut down? Let us know in the poll above or in the comments below.

Eye health specialist David Clulow will be opening a brand-new store at the retail location in the city centre this spring.

The new space will showcase the brand’s modernised retail format, with state-of-the-art optical testing rooms and improved accessibility.

A wide product range, including the latest designer and smart eyewear and lens technology, will also be stocked at the shop.

READ MORE: New Lego store opens this week at Oxford Westgate shopping centre

Clare Martin, Acting Centre Director at Westgate Oxford, said: “David Clulow’s new store will offer an unrivalled eye care experience for guests, alongside a stunning assortment of frames and sunglasses from notable designer brands.

“We look forward to sharing more details about the brand’s opening in due course.”

David Clulow will be celebrating its new opening with special events as well as luxury goodies on offer, with more details to be released soon.

The impending introduction of the store is the latest in a long line of recent Westgate comings and goings in recent weeks.

READ MORE: Two major UK restaurant chains set to close with 3,800 jobs lost

Shoe chain Russell & Bromley has departed its ground-floor store, leaving the unit empty, after the brand fell into administration.

Similarly, Claire’s has also closed at the Westgate after the beauty and accessory brand also collapsed into administration.

This week, the new Lego store will open on the ground floor with trading set to start on Thursday (May 7).

Oliver Bonas also recently moved from its home on the ground floor to a much larger unit on the middle floor, near the Queen Street and Bonn Square entrance.