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’s Gary Illyes Says You Don’t Need Robots.txt on Root Domain
Gary Illyes from Google stated that having a robots.txt file on the root domain is not necessary. He suggests that websites can now centralize their robots.txt files on Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) instead of just on the root domains. This means that websites can redirect the robots.txt file from the main domain to the CDN, allowing for easier management and control. While this approach may seem unorthodox, it complies with updated standards and guidelines. By adopting this method, website owners can ensure that their robots.txt files are easily accessible and properly implemented across their entire domain.
Google’s Gary Ilyes Explains Reasons For Crawled Not Indexed
Google’s Gary Ilyes recently shed light on the reasons why a page might be crawled but not indexed by the search engine. He explained that this situation can occur for various reasons, such as dupe elimination. This process involves crawling a page only to discover that there is already a version of that content available in Google’s index, and this version has better signals. In an ideal scenario, this category would be broken down into more specific chunks, but the internal data structure makes it challenging. Ultimately, there can be multiple factors contributing to a page being crawled but not indexed.
Google’s Elizabeth Tucker Discusses Core Topicality Systems
Google’s Elizabeth Tucker shed light on the core topicality systems employed by the search engine Google. With an emphasis on delivering search results that are topically relevant to user queries, Google has developed numerous systems to cater to the diverse ways in which people search. While their systems have significantly improved over the years, there are still instances where particularly difficult searches can pose a challenge. People search using various methods, ranging from traditional keyword-based searches to voice commands using natural language. Google’s continuous efforts to refine its core topicality systems aim to enhance the overall search experience for users worldwide.
Google’s Gary Illyes Warns Of Soft 404 Errors And Their Impact On Web Crawling
Google’s Gary Illyes recently highlighted the importance of addressing soft 404 errors and their impact on web crawling. Soft 404 errors are misleading to web crawlers, leading to a waste of valuable resources. These errors occur when a webpage is not found but returns a 200 HTTP status code instead of the appropriate 404 code. This can confuse search engines and hinder the crawling process. By ensuring proper HTTP status codes are used, website owners can improve the efficiency of crawling and enhance their SEO efforts. Furthermore, addressing these soft errors can also contribute to improved site performance overall.
Google Search Ranking Volatility Ends on June 28th & 29th Weekend
The weekend of June 28th and 29th marked the end of a period of high volatility in Google search rankings. Website owners and SEO professionals have been closely monitoring their rankings during this time, as fluctuations in search results can have a significant impact on organic traffic and visibility. However, on June 28th and 29th, many noticed that the search rankings seemed to stabilize, with fewer drastic shifts in position. This suggests that Google may have made adjustments to its algorithm or resolved any issues that were causing the increased volatility. As a result, website owners and SEO professionals can now focus on optimizing their sites for improved search rankings without the constant worry of sudden fluctuations.
Google’s John Mueller Says Google Search Console Delays is Not a Google Core Update
In a post on LinkedIn, Google’s John Mueller addressed the speculation surrounding Google Search Console delays and clarified that they are not related to a Google core update. Mueller emphasized that any core updates would be announced when the time is right, and these reporting delays should not be mistaken for ranking updates. He further explained that reporting is an independent process of making ranking updates. Therefore, the delays in Search Console reporting do not impact core ranking or ranking updates. It is important to note that any confirmed updates would be documented on the Google Search Status Dashboard, unlike reporting delays.
In response to a question on LinkedIn, Google’s John Mueller explained as to why search console reporting delays are not included in the search status dashboard. According to Mueller, the dashboard is primarily focused on core search systems like crawling, indexing, ranking, and serving. As reporting delays are considered a separate issue that does not directly affect core ranking, they are not included in this report. This clarification helps to clarify why such delays may occur and why they are not reflected in the search status dashboard.
In an effort to address concerns and provide support to users, Alistair D., a Google community manager, has recently shared a comprehensive document in the Google Business Profiles forums. This document focuses on troubleshooting and FAQs related to missing and removed reviews. Alistair D. provides valuable insights into the reasons behind reviews going missing, as well as guidance on how to remove reviews if necessary effectively. Additionally, the document offers step-by-step instructions on how to troubleshoot any issues that may arise using the Google Business Profiles tools. With this resource, users can gain a better understanding of the review system and resolve any related issues they may encounter.
Google is constantly working on improving the user experience in its search results. One of the latest tests conducted by Google is the introduction of a top-quality store badge and icon next to the site name in the Google mobile search results. This new feature aims to provide users with a quick indication of the quality and reliability of a website. The badge and icon will help users identify reputable online stores and make informed decisions about which sites to visit. By displaying this information prominently in the search results, Google is making it easier for users to find reliable and trustworthy online retailers.
PPC Related News and Updates from Major Search Engine
Google Ads To Allow Lottery Couriers & Fantasy Sports Ads In Many States Within the United States
Google announced a significant change in its advertising policies, stating that it will now accept and run ads for Daily Fantasy Sports and lottery couriers in multiple states within the United States. This new policy is set to go into effect on July 15, 2024. Advertisers who wish to promote their services or products related to Daily Fantasy Sports or lottery couriers will be required to apply for certification. This move by Google opens up new opportunities for businesses operating in these industries to reach a wider audience through the search engine platform. Advertisers must comply with Google’s guidelines and regulations to ensure their ads meet the necessary standards.
Microsoft introduced the Property Center for Microsoft Advertising, which is great news for advertisers in the lodging industry. With this new feature, managing Hotel Price Ads and Property Promotion Ads for hotels and vacation rental properties will become much easier. This update from Microsoft allows for a streamlined and efficient process, giving advertisers more control and flexibility in their campaigns. Moreover, the expansion of lodging campaigns to more advertisers means that a wider range of businesses can now take advantage of this advertising opportunity, further enhancing their visibility and reach in the market.
Google Shows Local Service Ads on Mobile Local Business Finder
Google made a significant update to its mobile version of the Google local business finder interface in Google Search. Now, users can see Local Service Ads directly on their mobile devices. This new feature allows local businesses to promote their services more effectively and reach a larger audience. By including Local Service Ads in the mobile interface, Google is making it easier for users to find and connect with local service providers. This update further enhances the user experience and provides businesses with a valuable tool to increase their visibility and attract more customers.
