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 Introduces Certification Markup Support for Merchant Listings in Product Structured Data

Google has announced a new ‘Certification’ markup support for product structured data. This update will replace the existing ‘EnergyConsumptionDetails’ type with the latest ‘Certification’ type. The change is set to take effect in April, and websites need to update their structured data accordingly. This new Certification type will provide a more comprehensive and accurate representation of product certifications, allowing users to make more informed decisions when purchasing products online. Websites must stay up-to-date with these changes to optimize their search engine visibility and provide the best user experience.

Google Launches AI-Organized Search Results Pages

Google has introduced an exciting update to its search results pages in the US, utilizing artificial intelligence to organize the content more efficiently. This update begins by focusing on mobile device recipes and meal searches, providing users with a seamless and user-friendly experience. The new format of the search results pages is designed to compile various content types, such as articles, videos, and forums, making it easier for users to access relevant information in one place. With this AI-organized approach, Google aims to enhance the search experience for its users, ensuring they find the information they need quickly and effectively.

Google Adds AI-Powered Video and Voice Features to Lens

Google has unveiled exciting enhancements to its Lens app, incorporating AI-powered video and voice features that improve user interaction and accessibility. Additionally, the Circle to Search function now includes song identification on Android, allowing users to recognize and discover music quickly through simple gestures. Furthermore, Google is introducing ads in AI Overviews for U.S. users, providing businesses with new opportunities to reach potential customers through engaging content.

Google Launches CrUX Vis: A New Tool for Visualizing Core Web Vitals Trends

Google has launched a new tool called CrUX Vis to help users uncover hidden patterns in Core Web Vitals performance scores. By analyzing data sourced from the CrUX dataset, which reflects actual user experiences on various URLs and websites, CrUX Vis provides valuable insights into performance trends. The tool not only visualizes these patterns but also offers actionable guidance on areas for improvement. This enables webmasters and developers to enhance user experience by addressing specific performance issues, ultimately contributing to better website optimization and user satisfaction. CrUX Vis represents a significant step forward in performance analysis and debugging.

Google Adds Two Essential Best Practices for Product Markup

Google adds two new best practices for optimizing product markup to enhance shopping results. First, merchants are advised to include Product structured data in the initial HTML of their pages for optimal visibility and performance. This ensures that search engines can easily access essential information. Second, for those using JavaScript to generate product markup, it’s important to note that dynamic markup may lead to less frequent and reliable crawls, especially for rapidly changing content like pricing and availability. Merchants should ensure their servers are equipped to manage increased traffic from Google to maintain accurate product data.

Bing Expands AI-Powered Search Capabilities for More Complex User Queries

Bing is taking a step forward in enhancing its search capabilities by incorporating AI technology. Bing is rolling out a beta version of its generative search feature to provide users with more accurate and relevant results. While still in the testing phase, this feature will enable users to explore and experience the power of generative search firsthand. It is important to note that during this beta phase, users may experience some loading time as Bing fine-tunes the accuracy and relevancy of the generative search results. This new feature will primarily be available for complex and informational queries, and users will be notified with the sentence “Results enhanced with Bing generative search” under the search box.

Google’s Search Liaison Danny Sullivan Discusses the Rise of User-Generated Content in Google Search

In an interview with Aleyda Solis, Google Search Liaison Danny Sullivan shed light on the growing importance of user-generated content (UGC) in search results. Sullivan attributed this shift to the increasing demand for UGC and the proliferation of subpar content produced by marketers. He stressed that by featuring UGC, Google aims to offer users firsthand perspectives that complement the information found on traditional web pages. This move signifies a recognition of the value and authenticity that UGC brings to search results, allowing users to access a diverse range of perspectives and insights.

Google’s John Mueller Clarifies Simultaneous Use of Canonical & Noindex

Google’s John Mueller clarifies that website owners should choose the index or follow the links approach to manage their site’s canonical tags. He emphasizes that while search engines may still pick up links on an indexed page, it is not guaranteed. Mueller stresses the importance of clarifying preferences in SEO rather than leaving things uncertain. Additionally, he emphasizes the significance of having a solid site structure that works well for search engines rather than solely focusing on individual aspects such as links. 

Social Media Related News and Updates from Major Search Engine

YouTube Expands Shorts Length to 3 Minutes, Introduces New Templates and AI Tools

YouTube announced that Shorts will now support videos of up to 3 minutes, offering creators more flexibility and opportunities for storytelling. This update introduces several new features, including customizable templates and enhanced remixing options, making it easier for users to create dynamic content. Additionally, AI-generated video backgrounds will provide innovative visual enhancements. To keep viewers engaged, YouTube is launching a Shorts trends page, allowing users to discover popular videos quickly. Comment previews will also be implemented, enabling users to see discussions before watching, fostering a more interactive experience within the Shorts community. 

PPC Related News and Updates from Major Search Engine

Microsoft Advertising Unveils New Ad Experience with Enhanced Diagnostics and Performance Snapshot

Microsoft announced a new streamlined advertising experience within its Copilot feature, introducing two key capabilities: diagnostics and performance snapshot. Ads will now appear below Copilot’s organic responses, emphasizing relevance while minimizing ad annotations and extensions for a cleaner look. This new approach ensures ads are triggered based on the conversation context rather than just the last prompt, enhancing user engagement. A low-resolution screenshot provided by Microsoft illustrates how these ads will integrate seamlessly into the Copilot results. These updates are set to begin rolling out this month, promising a more cohesive and relevant advertising experience.

Google Launches Ads In AI Overviews

Google officially launched ads in AI Overviews for mobile users in the United States, offering a fresh opportunity for advertisers. Those utilizing Shopping, Performance Max, or AI-powered Search campaigns are eligible to display their ads in these overviews, enabling brands to connect with potential customers earlier in their search journey. This new feature enhances visibility and engagement, allowing advertisers to showcase their offerings right when users explore relevant information. By integrating ads seamlessly into AI Overviews, Google aims to improve the overall search experience while providing businesses effective ways to reach their target audience.

Google Shopping Ads Now Integrated into Google Lens Results for Enhanced Shopping Experience

Google Shopping Ads are integrated into Google Lens results, enhancing the shopping experience for users. When using Lens, shoppers can access a wealth of information, including price comparisons, product reviews, and locations to purchase items. This integration allows users to make informed decisions quickly and easily while browsing visually. Initially, Shopping Ads for Google Lens will be available in select countries and limited product categories, with plans for expansion in the future. This feature aims to streamline the shopping process, making it more efficient and user-friendly for consumers seeking products through visual search.

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.