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 Search Adds AI Performance Reporting and Content Controls
Google is introducing new reporting metrics and content controls for AI search experiences, giving publishers more visibility into AI-driven traffic and additional options to manage how their content appears in AI features. The update aims to improve transparency as AI search experiences continue expanding.
Google May 2026 Core Update Officially Completed
Google has officially completed rolling out the May 2026 Core Update after several weeks of fluctuations and ranking volatility. Website owners may continue seeing performance changes as Google’s systems fully process and stabilize search results following the update.
Google Says Search Quality Raters Do Not Directly Impact Rankings
Google reiterated that Search Quality Raters do not directly influence search rankings but instead help evaluate whether search systems are delivering useful results. The company explained that feedback from raters is used to improve algorithms rather than manually adjust rankings.
Google Calls LLMs.txt ‘Speculative’ for Now
Google’s John Mueller said LLMs.txt remains speculative and is not something Google Search currently relies on or recommends for SEO. He also suggested that newer approaches like WebMCP may be more relevant for future AI-agent interactions with websites.
Google Expands Link Cards in Search Results
Google is testing and expanding larger link card formats in search results, displaying more visual and interactive link previews across search experiences. The change could increase content visibility and encourage more engagement with search result links.
Google Tests First Order Price Labels in Search Results
Google is testing a new “1st Order Price” label in search results that highlights special pricing available for first-time purchases. The feature appears designed to improve pricing transparency and help shoppers quickly identify introductory offers and discounts.
Google Launches Search Profiles for Creators
Google is rolling out Search Profiles for creators with at least 100,000 followers, allowing eligible creators to showcase social profiles, content, and creator information directly within Google Search. The feature aims to increase creator visibility and help users discover content creators more easily through search.
PPC Related News and Updates from Major Platforms
Google Ads Tests New Prospects Mode Feature
Google Ads is testing a new “Prospects Mode” feature designed to help advertisers focus more on reaching potential new customers rather than existing audiences. The feature appears aimed at improving customer acquisition and expanding audience targeting capabilities within campaigns.
Google Expands Healthcare Ads in AI Mode
Google is expanding healthcare-related ads within AI Mode, allowing users to see sponsored healthcare results integrated into AI-powered search experiences. The update reflects Google’s continued efforts to monetize AI search while maintaining relevant commercial experiences within AI-generated responses.
Bing Tests Sitelinks in Search Ads
Bing is testing sitelinks within search ads, allowing advertisers to display additional clickable links directly below sponsored listings. The update could improve ad visibility and provide users with faster access to relevant pages from search results.
Google Ads Tests Branded Search Controls
Google Ads is testing new branded search controls that allow advertisers to better manage when and where their ads appear for branded queries. The feature aims to give advertisers more flexibility in controlling brand traffic and campaign targeting.
