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 Tests Replacing Search Result Snippets with AI-Generated Descriptions
Google is experimenting with swapping out traditional meta-generated snippet descriptions in search results for AI-written ones, often marked with a “Gemini” icon.
The move may shift how sites’ content is represented in search, potentially reducing reliance on pages’ own summaries or meta descriptions.
Bing Shows “Search History” Disclaimer to Users on SERPs
Microsoft is now displaying a “History” section in Bing’s search results that reminds users of how their past searches are being used or tracked. This notice illustrates Bing’s transparency push around using search history to refine query results and personalization.
Google Tests New “Insights” Panel for Business Profiles
Google is experimenting with a new “Insights” experience within Google Business Profiles that goes beyond simple performance metrics. The redesigned panel offers personalized, actionable suggestions such as encouraging businesses to post updates, request more customer reviews, or highlight new products and services to improve engagement. This marks a shift from purely analytical reporting to proactive optimization guidance, helping local businesses make data-driven improvements directly from their profile dashboard.
Google Expands AI Mode to 35 New Languages & 40+ Countries
Google is rolling out its AI Mode in over 200 countries and territories by adding support for 35+ new languages and expanding into more than 40 additional regions. The move is powered by Google’s latest Gemini models, enabling users to ask longer, more complex questions in their native language and receive AI-assisted, relevant results.
Google Search Ranking Volatility Spikes on October 7–8
SEO tracking tools and webmaster discussions noted heightened fluctuations in Google search rankings during October 7–8, even though Google has not confirmed any official core or spam update. Many experts believe this surge in volatility may be linked to testing or incremental adjustments within Google’s ranking systems, possibly tied to recent AI and ranking model refinements. The changes have caused noticeable traffic shifts across various industries, leaving SEOs monitoring closely for further confirmation or patterns.
PPC Related News and Updates from Major Search Engine
Google to Sunset Call Ads and Assets by July 2024
Google has announced it will phase out Call Ads and call assets in Google Ads, transitioning advertisers toward lead forms and other conversion-focused ad formats. The change begins in early 2024, with full removal by July, aiming to modernize ad experiences and reduce spam-related issues.
Microsoft Advertising to Discontinue Its Ad Grant Program for Nonprofits by End of 2025
Microsoft announced it will retire the Ads for Social Impact grant program, which provides free ad credits to verified nonprofits, by December 31, 2025. The final ad grants will be distributed on November 30, 2025, and organizations will have 45 days to utilize remaining balances. This decision marks the end of Microsoft’s long-running initiative to support nonprofit digital visibility, with the company encouraging participants to explore other advertising and partnership opportunities moving forward.
