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 Reengineering Search Stack with Large Language Models
Google is overhauling its entire search infrastructure to deeply integrate large language models (LLMs) into core processes like ranking, retrieval, and result presentation. This move, revealed in DOJ trial documents, aims to enhance query understanding and result summarization, marking a significant shift in how search will function in the AI era.
Google Tests New Sub-Second Filter Menu in Search Results
Google is testing a new “Sub-Second Menu” that appears just below the search bar, offering quick filtering options like “Videos,” “News,” or “Images.” This dynamic UI element loads rapidly (in under a second) and enhances user experience by making refinements easier. The test highlights Google’s continued experimentation with real-time SERP enhancements to improve navigation and relevance.
Google Search Console Now Lets You Add Annotations
Google has introduced a new feature in Search Console that allows users to add custom annotations to performance reports. These annotations help track significant changes such as site updates, marketing campaigns, or algorithm impacts directly on the performance graph. This update enhances data analysis by providing clearer context for traffic fluctuations and trends.
Bing Search APIs Set to Retire on August 11, 2025
Microsoft has announced that several legacy Bing Search APIs will be deprecated on August 11, 2025. These include APIs for web search, image search, video search, news search, and others. Users are encouraged to migrate to the newer Bing Search v7 or Azure AI services to maintain functionality. The transition is part of Microsoft’s ongoing effort to streamline and modernize its API offerings.
Google Tests “AI Mode” Button on Search Bar
Google is testing an “AI Mode” button directly on the search bar interface, aimed at toggling between traditional search results and AI-generated answers. The button appears as a test feature for some users and reflects Google’s efforts to integrate generative AI more prominently into the search experience. This move is part of Google’s broader push toward AI-enhanced search through its Search Generative Experience (SGE).
Google: Different URLs for Same Image Are Treated as Separate Files
Google has clarified that when the same image appears on multiple URLs, each instance is treated as a separate image file during indexing and ranking. This means SEO value is not consolidated across those URLs. To maintain consistency and SEO effectiveness, Google recommends using a single canonical image URL when possible.
PPC Related News and Updates from Major Platforms
Google Ads Performance Max Now Allows Device-Level Targeting
Google Ads has introduced a new feature for Performance Max (PMax) campaigns—advertisers can now apply device-level bid adjustments. This update enables greater control over how ads are served across desktop, mobile, and tablet devices, allowing optimization based on performance metrics. The change is rolling out gradually through the campaign settings under “Devices.”
Google Testing “Ads Funded By” Label on Search Ads
Google is experimenting with a new ad disclosure label—“Ads funded by”—which appears on some search ads to indicate the advertiser behind the content. This label may include the advertiser’s name or a dropdown with more details, promoting transparency. The test aligns with ongoing regulatory and user trust initiatives, and was first spotted by industry watchers in mid-May 2025.
