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 Analytics New Data Trend Changes Detects Feature
Google Analytics introduced a trend change detection feature that goes beyond just spotting sudden spikes in metrics. This new capability aims to detect gradual, long-term changes in data trends, allowing users to stay on top of potential SEO issues. By monitoring trends over time, website owners and marketers can quickly investigate any deviations and make necessary adjustments to their SEO strategies. This feature enables users to identify even the most subtle but meaningful shifts in data patterns, ensuring that they can proactively address any emerging challenges and optimize their website’s performance.
Google Uses New AI Technology to Detect and Block Fake Online Reviews
Google has implemented new AI technology that allows it to detect and block these fraudulent reviews faster than ever before. In 2023 alone, Google successfully blocked 170 million fake reviews, highlighting the scale of this issue. This achievement is largely attributed to the introduction of a new algorithm that has proven to be 45% more accurate in identifying fake reviews compared to previous methods. By utilizing this advanced technology, Google aims to maintain the integrity of online reviews and provide users with more reliable and trustworthy information when making purchasing decisions.
In response to inquiries about the timing of recovery from the helpful content update, Google’s search liaison, Danny Sullivan, stated that he did not provide a specific timeframe for this process. He explained that it would be unusual for him to do so because it is not something mentioned in their documentation. However, he addressed a common question regarding how long it would take for a website to improve if it removes unhelpful content. Sullivan mentioned that sites identified by their system may experience the effects of the update over months. He emphasized that their classifier is continuously running, allowing it to monitor both newly launched and existing websites.
Google has made an update to its canonical search documentation by adding a section on the use of rel=canonical link annotations. This update aims to provide clearer guidelines on how Google supports explicit rel canonical link annotations, which are described in RFC 6596. It is important to note that rel=”canonical” annotations that suggest alternate versions of a page will be ignored by Google. Specifically, annotations with hreflang, lang, media, and type attributes will not be used for canonicalization purposes. Instead, webmasters are advised to use appropriate link annotations, such as link rel=”alternate” hreflang, to specify alternate versions of a page, especially for language and country annotations.
Google Search Console Rolls Out Some Relatively Small User Interface Changes
Google Search Console has rolled out some subtle yet noticeable changes to its user interface. These updates aim to enhance the overall user experience by giving the platform a more modern and visually appealing look. One of the key changes is the introduction of curved filters and sorting boxes, which add a touch of elegance to the interface. Additionally, the buttons have been revamped with a modern color scheme, making them more eye-catching. Moreover, the font sizes have been increased, ensuring better readability for users.
In a recent statement, Danny Sullivan, Google’s Search Liaison, addressed the misconception that all sites experiencing a decline in traffic are affected by helpful content issues. Sullivan emphasized that not all websites that believe such issues hit them actually were. He pointed out that some of the sites he investigated were found to be functioning optimally and did not have any unhelpful content issues. Instead, their decrease in traffic could be attributed to competitors who have improved their rankings and surpassed them in search results.
Google Maps With New Algorithm Blocked 45% More Fake Reviews In 2023
In 2023, Google Maps introduced a new algorithm that proved to be highly effective in blocking fake reviews. With this new algorithm in place, Google Maps successfully blocked 45% more fake reviews compared to previous years. This development is significant as it ensures that users receive accurate and reliable information when using the platform. Fake reviews can be misleading and detrimental to businesses, as they can negatively impact their reputation and influence potential customers’ decisions. By implementing this new algorithm, Google Maps has taken a proactive approach to maintaining the integrity of its platform and providing users with trustworthy information.
Google’s John Mueller Says on Reddit: You Won’t Get Your Rankings Back By Disavowing Toxic Links
In a recent discussion on Reddit, Google’s John Mueller expressed his opinion on the effectiveness of disavowing toxic links from a Semrush report. According to Mueller, simply relying on Semrush’s report and disavowing those links will not result in a restoration of one’s Google search rankings. This statement highlights the complexity of Google’s ranking algorithm and the importance of a comprehensive approach to SEO. SEO professionals should consider a holistic strategy that encompasses various factors such as content quality, user experience, and overall website optimization to achieve sustainable improvements in search rankings.
PPC Related News and Updates from Major Search Engine
Google Ads Liaison Ginny Marvin Confirms AdSense Shifts To eCPM Payment Model
Google Ads Liaison Ginny Marvin confirmed that AdSense has undergone a significant shift in its payment model. The platform has transitioned to an eCPM payment model, focusing on impressions rather than clicks. This change means that publishers will now receive 80% of the ad revenue after fees, as opposed to the previously fixed 68% share. As a result, publishers may need to adapt their content and SEO strategies to maximize impressions and ultimately increase their revenue.
