Taylor Swift is living up to her “Mastermind” status. On Sept. 19, the star announced an interactive word puzzle in collaboration with Google that points to the names of the 1989 (Taylor’s Version) vault tracks. However, for many fans, including myself, the 1989 word puzzles aren’t showing up on Google. And if this sounds like you, there might be a way to fix it.
Now, if you’re not a Swiftie, you’re most definitely confused — so allow me to give you some background. On Aug. 9, Taylor Swift announced her re-record of 1989 (named 1989 (Taylor’s Version)), which will be released on Oct. 27, 2023. And, in true Taylor Swift fashion, the album isn’t arriving without its fair share of theories, Easter Eggs, and clues pointing to the re-record’s contents. Namely, the 1989 (Taylor’s Version) vault tracks.
So, as Mother does, Taylor Swift collaborated with Google on Sept. 19 to give the fans what they wanted: (controlled) chaos… and 1989 (Taylor’s Version) clues. After posting a vague announcement on Instagram, Google confirmed the collaboration and explained the launch of a word game for fans to find out more about the 1989 (Taylor’s Version) vault tracks. According to Google, all fans have to do is type “Taylor Swift” into the search bar, click the vault, and solve the puzzle. However, many fans can’t even see the 1989 vault icon — but, luckily, there’s a fix.
If the vault is not working for everyone then it will be impossible to open it pic.twitter.com/pjoSsXXolc
— jªmes (@tsfolkmore13) September 19, 2023
Why can’t I see the Taylor Swift vault icon on Google?
Opening the vault is a group effort (no, seriously, Swifties have to solve a combined 33 million puzzles to unlock it). So, if you feel like you’re missing out on the fun, there are a few fixes you can try before hopping in again.
First, remember that this feature is brand-new, so it may take some time to roll out to your browser. However, start by checking if your browser is up-to-date, as this can impact your ability to access new features like the 1989 word puzzles.
Then, take some time to navigate your settings. On Chrome, head to the “Settings” tab (it’s under that little three-dot icon) and click “Privacy and security.” From there, follow the arrows to “Site settings,” and then to “Pop-ups and redirects.” Once you’re there, you can either toggle your permissions to allow all pop-ups and redirects, or choose a specific site (like Google) to send pop-ups.
After allowing pop-ups, you most likely will be able to view the 1989 word puzzles on Google. (A win!) However, if it still doesn’t work, you may just have to be patient and wait for the feature to be available in your region (or on your browser). Be patient, bestie — it’ll pay off in the end!