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
Bing Experiments with Double-Bordered Search Box Design
Microsoft is testing a new visual design for Bing’s search box, featuring a double border that outlines the main input field but not the autocomplete suggestions. This subtle UI change, observed by users like Khushal Bherwani and Sachin Patel, is part of Bing’s ongoing efforts to refine its interface aesthetics. While the update is minor, it reflects Microsoft’s continuous experimentation with search interface elements.
Google Releases New Guidelines on AI-Generated Content and Search Features
Google published two new help documents providing guidance on integrating generative AI content into websites and understanding AI features in search. While the documents consolidate existing information, they serve as a centralized resource for developers and webmasters. The release aims to clarify best practices for using AI-generated content and how AI features like AI Overviews and AI Mode interact with websites.
Google Tests Hiding Citations in AI Overviews
Google is experimenting with concealing citation icons in its AI Overviews, leading to initial search results that lack visible source links. Users must now interact with the overview to access citations, which are displayed in an overlay tray, potentially diminishing direct traffic to original publishers. This change has raised concerns among SEO professionals about transparency and the accessibility of source information.
Google Tests Anchor Link Boxes in Search Snippets
Google is experimenting with a new feature in its search results: a link icon box within snippets that, when clicked, directs users to specific sections of a webpage using anchor links. This functionality aims to enhance user experience by allowing quicker access to relevant content, similar to features found in “People Also Ask” and AI Overviews. The test was first observed by Brodie Clark, who shared screenshots highlighting this update.
Google Tests Removing Site Names from Search Snippets
Google is experimenting with omitting site names from search result snippets, displaying only the site’s URL above the title link. This change, observed by SEO expert Brodie Clark, alters the visual layout of search results and may impact brand visibility. It’s part of Google’s ongoing efforts to refine the user interface and presentation of search results.
Microsoft Collaborates with Creators to Showcase Bing’s Copilot Search
Microsoft is partnering with content creators to highlight the capabilities of its AI-powered Copilot Search in Bing, launched in April 2025. As announced by Microsoft’s Jordi Ribas, these collaborations demonstrate how users can leverage Copilot Search for tasks like planning trips or discovering new information. For instance, creator Carlos Deloye Harris Jr. showcased planning a summer trip to Thailand in minutes using Copilot Search.
PPC Related News and Updates from Major Platforms
Google Expands Ads to AI Overviews and AI Mode on Desktop
Google is extending its advertising reach by integrating Search and Shopping ads into AI Overviews on desktop platforms in the U.S., building upon their previous mobile implementation. Additionally, the company is initiating tests for ads within AI Mode, its AI-powered search interface designed for complex queries. These ads are sourced from existing Performance Max, Shopping, and Search campaigns, offering businesses new avenues to connect with users during their search journeys.
Google Unveils Smart Bidding Exploration to Broaden Search Campaign Reach
Google has introduced Smart Bidding Exploration, a significant update to its Google Ads platform. This feature allows advertisers to target less obvious yet potentially high-performing search queries, thereby expanding their reach. By utilizing flexible ROAS targets, campaigns can now bid on a wider array of search terms, leading to an average increase of 18% in unique search query categories with conversions and a 19% boost in overall conversions.
