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 Flags Unrelated Content as Potential SEO Issue
Google’s John Mueller highlighted that having a significant amount of unrelated content on a website can negatively impact its search rankings. In a recent discussion, he pointed out that such content might confuse search engines about the site’s primary focus, potentially leading to indexing issues and ranking drops. While Google doesn’t mandate niche-only content, maintaining topical relevance is crucial for SEO success.
Google Business Profiles Rebrands ‘Updates’ as ‘Posts
Google has renamed the “Add update” feature in Google Business Profiles to “Posts,” aligning the terminology across platforms. This change is purely cosmetic, with no alterations to functionality, and aims to standardize the naming convention for business owners managing their profiles.
Google Tests Color-Coded Stock Indicators in Search Results
Google is experimenting with adding color-coded stock status icons to product listings in search results. In this test, green icons signify “In stock” items, while red icons indicate “Out of stock” products. Although stock labels have been used before, this is the first instance of incorporating distinct colors to visually convey product availability directly within search snippets.
Google Search Experiences Temporary Disruption in Serving New Content
On June 12, 2025, Google Search encountered a significant issue where newly published content from major news outlets like The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal was not appearing in search results. While Google initially acknowledged problems with services like Google Lens, Discover, and Voice Search, the broader impact on standard search results became evident later in the evening. By approximately 9:50 PM ET, the issue began to resolve, with new content gradually reappearing in search listings.
Google Plans to Integrate AI Mode into Main Search
In a recent interview, Google CEO Sundar Pichai revealed that AI Mode, currently accessible via a separate tab, will gradually be incorporated into the main Google Search interface. This integration aims to enhance user experience by embedding AI-generated responses directly into search results, leveraging features like AI Overviews and advanced conversational capabilities. The transition reflects Google’s commitment to evolving its search platform through advanced AI technologies.
PPC Related News and Updates from Major Platforms
Google Ads Tests URL Inclusions and Exclusions for Enhanced Search Campaign Control
Google Ads is experimenting with a new feature that allows advertisers to specify URL inclusions and exclusions within Search campaigns. This functionality enables marketers to control which URLs their ads can or cannot appear for, offering more precise targeting and optimization. Currently, this feature is in limited testing and not widely available.
Google Tests Placing Local Ads at Bottom of Local Map Pack
Google is experimenting with displaying sponsored local ads at the bottom of the local map pack in search results, deviating from the traditional placement at the top. This test, observed by Anthony Higman, could influence user engagement and visibility for advertisers, though it’s currently limited and not universally implemented.
Google Ads AI Max Rolling Out to All Advertisers in Q3 2025
Google’s AI Max, a new one-click feature suite for Search campaigns, is set to become available to all advertisers by early Q3 2025. This tool offers advanced targeting and creative enhancements powered by Google’s AI, aiming to streamline campaign optimization. Currently in limited testing, AI Max will soon provide broader access to its suite of automation and performance tools.
