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
In a recent episode of the “Search Off the Record” podcast, Search Liaison Danny Sullivan joined the conversation to shed light on Google’s ranking systems and updates. Sullivan emphasized that Google’s ranking system is not a single algorithm but a combination of multiple systems. This dispels the common misconception that there is one definitive algorithm that determines search rankings. Instead, Google employs a complex network of algorithms that consider various factors. It’s important to note that Google’s increased transparency regarding its ranking systems and updates does not necessarily indicate more frequent changes. While Google has been sharing more information about its processes, this does not mean that there will be constant and abrupt alterations to the algorithms.
Google Search Rolls Out August 2023 Broad Core Update
Google Search has initiated the rollout of its second broad core update for 2023, the August 2023 broad core update. This update began on August 22, 2023, around 1:30 pm ET. As with previous updates, it is expected to take approximately two weeks to roll out across all Google search results fully. Broad core updates are significant algorithm changes that aim to improve the relevance and quality of search results. Website owners and marketers should closely monitor their website’s performance and make necessary adjustments to ensure compatibility with the updated ranking factors implemented by this latest update.
Google’s John Mueller Answers If Noindex Is Okay For Altering Sitelinks
In a recent discussion, Google’s John Mueller addressed the question of whether using the “noindex” tag is a good strategy for removing a less-than-ideal webpage from sitelinks. Mueller explained that when a web page is marked as “Noindex,” it is temporarily dropped from the index but will return to its normal state when the tag is removed. He emphasized that this temporary removal does not signal to Google that you like the webpage any less. The indexing and ranking aspects are separate, and a temporary Noindex does not affect the ranking of the webpage. Mueller’s explanation provides clarity on the use of the Noindex tag and its impact on sitelinks.
Google’s John Mueller Answers on The “Impact” Of ARTICLE Semantic HTML Element
In response to a question about the impact of the article> semantic HTML element on Google Search, John Mueller from Google clarified that this specific element does not significantly affect search rankings. He explained that this is similar to other HTML tag types, implying that Google’s algorithms do not prioritize or penalize websites based on their use of the article> element. However, Mueller emphasized that there are other important considerations when using HTML, such as accessibility and semantic reasons. This indicates that the use of specific markup elements can have benefits beyond SEO and should not be solely focused on optimizing for search engines.
Google: Your Page Doesn’t Need to be in the Top 10 Results for Featured Snippets
In a recent statement, Google’s John Mueller clarified that there is no requirement for a page to rank within the top ten search results to be eligible for a featured snippet position. This announcement comes as welcome news for website owners and content creators who may have previously believed that only top-ranking pages could secure a featured snippet. Mueller’s statement confirms that Google’s algorithms consider various factors when determining which page to feature, including relevancy and quality of content.
Google Search Tests New Icons For About This Result Snippet
Google Search is always looking for ways to improve user experience, and one of the latest tests involves changing the icons for the About This Result snippet. Currently, the three vertical dot button is used to access additional information about a search result. However, Google is experimenting with three new icons: a circle I button, a triangular dot button, and a question mark icon. These icons offer a fresh, visually appealing alternative to the current design. By making the About This Result feature more intuitive and accessible, Google aims to provide users with a seamless search experience. It will be interesting to see the results of these tests and how they may impact user behavior on the platform.
Google’s Gary Illyes Shares Some Ways How To Block Parts Of Content On A Page
During a recent discussion, Google’s Gary Illyes shared some methods to prevent specific portions of a webpage from being visible to Google Search. For instance, if you wish to hide a particular section or paragraph from search engine crawlers, Gary provided a few techniques to achieve this. It is important to note that crawlers, similar to browsers, act as HTTP clients and retrieve the bytes provided by the server. The crawler will skip crawling that area by withholding the bytes for a specific section. One method Gary suggests is placing the desired section within JavaScript code that is disallowed for crawling. Alternatively, for those daring enough, there is the option to modify the HTTP protocol to prevent the server from providing the bytes for the targeted section.
Social Media Related News and Updates from Major Search Engine
LinkedIn Announces New Features to Enhance the Newsletter Experience
LinkedIn has recently unveiled new features to improve the newsletter experience for its users. Acknowledging the time and effort required to write a newsletter, LinkedIn has addressed feedback regarding the clunky article editor platform and introduced a smoother editing and publishing experience. This update aims to enhance the overall user experience and streamline the process of creating and sharing engaging content through newsletters. LinkedIn allows users to host up to five newsletters under one account, providing more flexibility and options for content creators. Furthermore, when a member subscribes to a newsletter, they will automatically become followers of the creator’s LinkedIn profile, fostering stronger connections and increasing creator visibility.
Elon Musk Plans to Remove Headlines and Descriptions From Shared Posts on X
Elon Musk has confirmed his plans to remove headlines and descriptions from shared articles on X. This move is intended to improve the aesthetics of the platform and reduce clickbait, ultimately enhancing the user experience. However, this change could have significant implications for publishers and advertisers who rely on captivating headlines and descriptions to attract readers and drive traffic to their content. Musk’s personal preferences have influenced X’s evolution, and this latest decision is a testament to his commitment to creating a more visually appealing and engaging platform for users.
Threads by Instagram Rolls Out the Web Version of its Social Platform
Threads by Instagram, the popular messaging app, has recently introduced a web interface, marking a significant expansion of its services beyond the mobile platform. This move is a surprise because Threads was launched less than two months ago. The design and functionality of the web interface have been carefully developed to ensure consistency for mobile app users, providing a seamless and intuitive experience regardless of the platform they choose. This expansion is undoubtedly a strategic move by Instagram to broaden its user base and enhance user engagement.
PPC Related News and Updates from Major Search Engine
Google is implementing an automatic upgrade for vehicle ads to Performance Max, a feature that has the potential to benefit advertisers significantly. Performance Max is designed to expand customer reach and increase conversions, making it an attractive option for businesses looking to optimize their online advertising campaigns. This upgrade will be rolled out in September, giving advertisers ample time to prepare and take advantage of the enhanced capabilities offered by Performance Max.
Google Announces the Transition of Discovery Campaigns to the New Demand Gen Campaign Type
Google has introduced a new campaign type called Demand Gen campaigns, which utilizes artificial intelligence (AI) technology. This feature is in beta and available for advertisers to test and provide feedback. The full rollout of Demand Gen campaigns is scheduled to commence in October 2023. These campaigns are specifically designed to generate demand in the mid-funnel stage of the customer journey. By leveraging AI, Google aims to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of advertising efforts by targeting potential customers who have shown interest but may still need to be ready to make a purchase. This new campaign type will provide advertisers with valuable insights and opportunities to drive conversions.
Google AdsLiaison Provides Information on New Features for Performance Max Brand Safety Controls
Google Ads has recently provided clear information about the latest updates to brand safety controls in PMax across various advertising channels such as Search, Shopping, Display, and Video. These updates aim to give advertisers more options to ensure their brand safety. With PMax, advertisers can effectively utilize content labels and keyword exclusions to tailor their ad placements and target audiences. This allows them to control where their ads appear and minimize the risk of associating their brand with inappropriate or harmful content. Additionally, Google has enhanced Search Terms Insights, providing advertisers with valuable data and insights on the performance of their search campaigns.
Google Local Service Ads Stops Collecting Anonymous Reviews On August 25th
Google has recently announced that it will no longer collect anonymous reviews starting August 25, 2023. This decision was communicated through a notice posted in a help document. The statement clearly states that Google has stopped collecting anonymous reviews and will cease displaying them on the date mentioned. This change indicates a shift towards more transparent and accountable practices regarding online reviews. Additionally, Google has made it known that reviews are no longer mandatory for Local Service Ads (LSAs) to be shown, making it an optional feature for businesses.
