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 Refines ‘Low Quality’ Content Definition in Updated Rater Guidelines
Google’s latest update to its Search Quality Rater Guidelines introduces clearer distinctions between “low” and “lowest” quality content. The revisions emphasize that pages lacking sufficient main content, expertise, or trustworthiness should be rated accordingly, even if they aim to serve a beneficial purpose. Additionally, the guidelines now address emerging spam tactics, such as expired domain abuse, site reputation abuse, and scaled content abuse, providing raters with more detailed criteria to assess content quality.
Google Warns Against Overusing Identical Anchor Text in Site Navigation
In a recent discussion, Google’s John Mueller addressed concerns about using the same anchor text across multiple sitewide navigation links. He clarified that while such repetition doesn’t inherently dilute SEO value, overusing identical anchor text can lead to redundancy, potentially confusing users and diminishing the effectiveness of internal linking. Mueller emphasized the importance of using descriptive and varied anchor text to enhance user experience and provide clearer context to search engines. This approach aids in better understanding the linked content, thereby supporting more effective SEO strategies.
Google: Updating XML Sitemap Dates Won’t Boost SEO
Google’s John Mueller clarified that automatically updating XML sitemap <lastmod> dates without actual content changes does not enhance SEO. He emphasized that such practices are ineffective and can hinder Google’s ability to identify genuinely updated pages. Mueller advised that sitemap dates should only reflect real content modifications, and focusing on creating valuable content is a more effective SEO strategy.
Google Tests Redirecting Local Panel Reviews to AI Overviews
Google is experimenting with linking the “Reviews” button in local business panels to AI-generated overviews instead of the traditional review lists. This change, observed by SEO professional Todd Hayes, redirects users to a search results page featuring an AI Overview summarizing reviews when they click on “Reviews” in a Google Business Profile. While this test isn’t universally replicated, it signifies Google’s ongoing efforts to integrate AI-generated content into various aspects of its search interface.
Bing Tests Dropping ‘Microsoft’ from Its Branding
Microsoft is experimenting with removing its name from the Bing search bar, displaying only the Bing logo without the “Microsoft Bing” text. This subtle branding change was first observed by SEO professional Khushal Bherwani and later confirmed by Barry Schwartz of Search Engine Roundtable. The test appears to be limited and may indicate Microsoft’s intent to streamline Bing’s visual identity or reposition the brand independently.
Bing Copilot Tests ‘More Videos’ Section in AI Answers
Microsoft Bing is testing a “More Videos” section within its Copilot AI-generated answers. This feature displays video thumbnails that, when clicked, redirect users to the main video section of Bing Search. Additionally, it showcases images that open in full size along with their source URLs. This enhancement aims to provide users with richer, multimedia content directly within AI-driven search results
PPC Related News and Updates from Major Platforms
Google Adds Channel Reporting to Performance Max Campaigns
Google is rolling out channel-level reporting for Performance Max campaigns, letting advertisers see performance data broken down by platforms like Search, YouTube, and Display. This long-awaited update improves transparency and helps optimize campaigns more effectively. This added visibility marks a significant step toward giving advertisers more control and insight into their multi-channel ad performance.
Google Expands Ad Placement: Top Ads Now Eligible for Bottom of Search Results
Google has updated its ad placement policy, allowing top-performing ads to appear at the bottom of search results pages in addition to the top. This change aims to enhance user experience and ad relevance by providing more visibility opportunities for high-quality ads. Advertisers should monitor their ad performance across different positions, as bottom placements may offer cost-effective engagement without compromising quality.
Google Tests “Sponsored” Labels for Commercial Query Links in Search Results
Google is experimenting with labeling certain search result sections as “Sponsored” when they link to commercial queries, even though these are not traditional paid advertisements. According to Google’s Ads Liaison, Ginny Marvin, this test aims to identify links leading to commercial search results, and advertisers are not charged for clicks on these placements.
