[Kylekramer]

But this redesign just hides the normal URL bar behind a button. So, basically, exactly the same as things run now except a click away. If things function exactly the same as now, how can people not use it properly? Even in your example, if people were to type in www.nytimes.com, they actually wouldn't search and be directed right to the website. It is actually a net win over the typical googling "facebook.com" story. The only thing that supports your idea is that the URL bar is accessed by a button that says "search", but I can't think of a better name for that. "URL Bar" would just be confusing.

Of course, I also think this is a pie in the sky mockup that won't ever make it to prime time due to numerous usability problems, but who knows?