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 Positions Its Guidance as the Authority on SEO and AI Search
Google has published new guidance emphasizing that its official documentation should be the primary reference for SEO, AEO (Answer Engine Optimization), and GEO (Generative Engine Optimization). The company also urges caution when relying on third-party SEO tools, services, and optimization claims, reinforcing Google Search guidance as the most reliable source.
Google Updates SEO Hiring Guide With AI and Tool Warnings
Google has updated its “Hiring an SEO” documentation, adding guidance that cautions businesses against relying solely on third-party SEO tools, services, and AI optimization claims. The update encourages site owners to prioritize Google’s official documentation, Search Console data, and user-focused best practices when evaluating SEO recommendations.
Google Says Hyphenated Domain Names Are SEO-Friendly
Google’s John Mueller confirmed that hyphenated domain names do not negatively impact SEO and are treated like any other domain by Google Search. While hyphens may affect branding and memorability, Google does not consider them a ranking factor or quality signal.
Google Business Profile Integrates With Gemini
Google is bringing Google Business Profile integration to Gemini, allowing business owners to access reviews, customer questions, profile data, and performance insights directly through the AI assistant. Users will also be able to generate review responses, analyze business performance, and manage profile updates using natural language prompts.
Google Business Profiles Auto-Adding WhatsApp Numbers, Causing Errors
Google appears to be automatically adding WhatsApp numbers to many Google Business Profiles. Some businesses report incorrect or non-functional numbers being added, and currently there is no option to remove them. Google has confirmed the issue is a bug and is working on a fix.
Microsoft Bing Adds Option to Disable Copilot AI Search Responses
Microsoft is testing a new search operator in Bing that allows users to remove AI-generated answers from their search results. By adding “-AI” to a query, users can bypass Bing’s AI responses and view more traditional organic search listings, giving them greater control over how search results are displayed.
PPC Related News and Updates from Major Platforms
Google Ads Adds Campaign Guidance for Experiment Power
Google Ads is introducing new campaign guidance that helps advertisers understand whether their experiments have enough statistical power to generate reliable results. The feature is designed to improve testing accuracy by providing recommendations on traffic, budget, and experiment setup before making campaign decisions.
Google Ads Tests Images Within Sitelink Extensions
Google is testing image-enhanced sitelink extensions in search ads, displaying thumbnail images alongside sitelink links within sponsored listings. The update could make ads more visually engaging, improve visibility, and increase user interaction with sitelink extensions.
Google Ads Tests Top Pages Links in Search Ads
Google is testing a new “Top Pages” links feature in search ads, highlighting key website pages directly within ad listings. The update aims to improve ad visibility, help users navigate to relevant pages faster, and potentially increase engagement with search ads.
Google Merchant Center Experiencing Delays in Product Submissions
Google has acknowledged delays in processing product submissions within Merchant Center, causing some merchants to experience slower product approvals and updates. Businesses are advised to monitor their accounts while Google works to resolve the issue.
Social Media Related News and Updates from Major Platforms
YouTube Expands In-App Video Sharing and Messaging to the U.S.
YouTube is rolling out its in-app video sharing and messaging feature to users in the U.S. and other select regions, allowing adults to share videos and chat without leaving the app. The feature revives a version of YouTube’s messaging system that was discontinued in 2019 and is designed to make content sharing and discussions more seamless within the platform
