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 Completes August 2025 Spam Algorithm Rollout

Google’s August 2025 spam update—affecting all languages and regions—has finished rolling out after 27 days, targeting general spam violations (not link spam). Sites impacted are urged to review Google’s spam policies and make necessary corrections, as recovery may take several months and future refreshes are expected.

Google Search Rankings Exhibit High Volatility After August Spam Update

Following the August 2025 spam update, many webmasters are reporting dramatic ranking fluctuations—some sites gaining, others losing—alongside indexing delays. The SEO community is actively debating whether these are residual effects, adjustment artifacts, or signs of further algorithmic tweaks.

Bing Experiments with Colorful Lines in Search Results

Bing is testing a new search interface that features colorful horizontal lines beneath the search bar and above results. The experiment, spotted by users, seems aimed at making the search experience more visually engaging, though its broader rollout remains uncertain.

Google Tests “Featured Stores” Sponsored Ads in Search

Google is experimenting with a new ads section in search results called “Featured Stores,” which spotlights select retailers through sponsored placements. This appears to be an ad-driven version of previously tested “featured stores” displays, differentiating it by the fact that the listings are paid rather than organic.

Bing Tests New Sitelinks Interface Variations

Microsoft is experimenting with different interface styles for sitelinks in Bing Search, introducing variations in how they’re displayed beneath main listings.
These interface experiments are part of ongoing tests to refine the visual presentation and usability of sitelinks.

Bing Testing Bolded Titles in Search Results & Ads

Bing is experimenting with bolding the title links in both organic and paid search listings, potentially making them more prominent. This change appears to be a test rather than a permanent rollout, and its impact on click behavior remains to be seen.

PPC Related News and Updates from Major Search Engine

Google Ads Tightens Rules Around Misleading Pricing in Adverts

Starting October 28, 2025, Google will enforce stricter rules under its Misrepresentation / Dishonest Pricing Practices policy, requiring advertisers to fully disclose the total cost users will incur, both before and after a purchase.
The update bans tactics such as bait-and-switch pricing, promoting “free” trials without clarity, or hiding automatic charges—all under the threat of warnings and potential account suspension. 

Bing Ads Add “Free Shipping” Text Attributes

Microsoft Advertising is experimenting with new text attributes in Bing search ads that highlight “Free Shipping on Qualified Orders” along with an icon. This feature appears to be in limited testing and is not yet broadly visible.

Author

Navneet Kaushal is the Editor-in-Chief of PageTraffic Buzz. A leading search strategist, Navneet helps clients maintain an edge in search engines and the online media. Navneet is also the CEO of SEO Services company PageTraffic which is one of the leading search marketing company in Asia.