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 Tests Local Panel Tabs Beneath Main Search Bar
Google is experimenting with repositioning local panel sub-menu tabs—such as “Overview” and “Reviews”—from their typical spot within the right-side local panel to directly beneath the main search bar. This change, observed by users like Jamie on X, alters the layout by displaying local panel content on the left side of the search results when a tab is selected. It’s unclear whether this is a deliberate test or a UI glitch, but it signifies Google’s ongoing efforts to refine the local search experience.
Microsoft Prioritizes Copilot in Bing Search Interface Update
Microsoft has updated the Bing Search interface by repositioning the “Copilot” tab to the first position in the navigation bar beneath the search box, replacing the traditional “All” tab with “Web”. This change emphasizes Microsoft’s focus on AI-driven search experiences, aligning with the official launch of Copilot Search in Bing earlier this year. The update was observed by users like Sachin Patel, who noted the interface adjustments on social media.
Google’s John Mueller: Links Unlikely to Influence Core Updates
Google’s John Mueller clarified that links likely have minimal to no impact on core algorithm updates, noting that these updates rely more on long-term signals. He added that recent link changes probably wouldn’t affect outcomes tied to core updates.
Google Tests AI Mode Shortcut in Chrome’s Search Bar
Google is experimenting with placing an “AI Mode” shortcut directly in the Chrome search bar on desktop and Android platforms. This move aims to streamline access to AI-powered search capabilities, reflecting Google’s ongoing efforts to integrate AI more deeply into user search experiences.
Google Confirms: Top-Ranking Sites Often Have Invalid HTML
Google’s John Mueller and Martin Splitt revealed that many high-ranking websites have invalid HTML, with only 0.5% of the top 200 sites showing fully valid code. While critical components like metadata must function correctly, most HTML errors don’t hinder rankings—highlighting that quality content and relevance outweigh perfect code structure.
PPC Related News and Updates from Major Search Engine
Google Introduces AI Max for Search: Enhancing Campaigns with AI-Driven Features
Google Ads has introduced AI Max for Search, an optional upgrade to standard Search campaigns that leverages AI to enhance ad performance. By integrating features like AI-powered search term matching, dynamic ad asset creation, and intelligent URL selection, AI Max aims to expand reach and improve efficiency without eliminating existing match types like broad match. Advertisers retain control over their campaigns, with the flexibility to opt in and adjust settings as needed.
Google Ads to Enforce Phone Number Verification for Message Assets Starting August 2025
Google Ads will require all phone numbers used in message assets to be verified starting August 1, 2025. New message assets with unverified numbers won’t be allowed, and existing ones will stop serving from September 1, 2025—extending the current verification policy to include message-based ads.
Microsoft Advertising Removes Over 1 Billion Ads in 2024 to Combat AI-Driven Scams
In its 2024 Trust and Safety Report, Microsoft Advertising disclosed the removal or restriction of over one billion ads and the suspension of more than 475,000 advertiser accounts due to policy violations. The company addressed 70,000 complaints, leading to the rejection of nearly 245,000 ads and 5,000 accounts, while overturning over 1.5 million ad rejections and 20,000 account suspensions following 72,000 appeals. These actions underscore Microsoft’s commitment to maintaining a secure and trustworthy advertising environment amid evolving digital threats.
