We hope you are in good health. Here are some of the major SEO news updates of the week that you need to know:
Search Related News and Updates from Major Search Engine
Google Explains How Search Console’s Branded Queries Filter Works
Google addressed common questions about the new branded queries filter in Search Console, explaining how it identifies and categorizes searches that include brand names, variations, or related products. The feature helps site owners distinguish between traffic from users already familiar with their brand and those discovering the site through non-branded searches. This separation gives SEOs clearer insights into brand awareness and organic discovery performance.
Google Maps Introduces AI Conversational Search With “Ask Maps”
Google Maps has launched an AI-powered conversational search feature called “Ask Maps,” allowing users to ask natural-language questions about specific places directly within Maps. The system uses Google’s Gemini AI along with data from business profiles, reviews, websites, and trusted sources to generate answers and recommendations. The feature aims to improve local discovery and may eventually replace the older user-generated Q&A system on Google Business Profiles.
Google Says Entire TLDs Like .XYZ Can Be Disavowed Using Domain Directive
Google’s John Mueller revealed that site owners can disavow links from an entire top-level domain (TLD), such as .xyz, by using the domain: directive in a disavow file. He described it as a “big hammer,” advising caution because it blocks all sites within that TLD, including potentially legitimate ones. Mueller also noted that most websites don’t need to use the disavow tool, but it can be useful if spam links are heavily concentrated in certain TLDs.
Google: It’s Fine To Disavow Links If You’re Unsure
Google’s John Mueller said most websites don’t need to use the link disavow tool, but it’s acceptable if site owners feel uncertain about potentially harmful backlinks. He explained that if SEOs are worried and want to be cautious, submitting a disavow file is “totally fine.” However, Google generally ignores random low-quality links automatically, so the tool is rarely necessary for most sites.
Google Tests “Ask About” Feature In AI Mode Citation Overlays
Google is testing a new “Ask about” feature within AI Mode’s citation overlays that lets users ask follow-up questions directly about a cited source or element in the response. The feature appears inside the citation box that opens when users click on sources in an AI answer. It aims to make Google’s AI search more conversational by allowing deeper exploration of information tied to specific citations.
PPC Related News and Updates from Major Search Engine
Google Ads Refreshes Asset Optimization Layout
Google has updated the Asset Optimization layout in Google Ads, introducing a refreshed interface designed to make campaign asset management clearer and easier for advertisers. The redesign improves how optimization settings and asset-related controls are displayed, helping users better manage features like text customization and URL expansion. The update reflects Google’s broader push to streamline asset-based ad management and improve usability in the platform.
Google Testing AI Voice Models for Performance Max Video Ads
Google Ads is introducing AI voice models that can automatically add realistic voice-overs to video ads in Performance Max (PMax) campaigns. The system generates narration using the advertiser’s existing headlines and descriptions, creating new voice-enhanced video assets when the original video has no voice. Advertisers can opt out of this video enhancement feature before it becomes automatically eligible for ads.
