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
Apple May Integrate AI Search Engines into Safari Amid Google Decline
Apple is reportedly exploring the integration of AI-powered search engines like Perplexity and others into Safari, as user reliance on Google search declines. This move could reshape the search engine landscape, challenging Google’s dominance and offering users more personalized, AI-driven search experiences.
Google Tightens Quality Guidelines to Combat Fake E-E-A-T Content
Google has updated its Search Quality Rater Guidelines to better identify deceptive content that falsely claims Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness (E-E-A-T). The revised Section 4.5.3 now includes clearer definitions of deceptive practices, such as fake endorsements and misleading page titles, aiming to enhance the authenticity of search results.
Google Clarifies Use of ‘Before:’ and ‘After:’ Search Operators
Google has confirmed that its ‘before:’ and ‘after:’ search operators, which allow users to filter results by date, remain in beta and require specific date formats (YYYY-MM-DD or just the year) to function correctly. However, due to inconsistencies in how websites indicate publication dates, these operators may not always yield precise results. For more accurate date-based searches, Google recommends using the ‘Tools > Any Time > Custom Range’ feature, though it lacks the flexibility of the operators.
Google Tests ‘Read Reviews’ Button and Appointment Tags in Local Listings
Google is experimenting with new features in its local listings and ads, including a prominent “Read Reviews” button and appointment-related tags like “Appointment Suggested” and “Appointment Required.” These additions aim to enhance user experience by providing clearer information about businesses’ services and availability. Similar descriptive tags have also been spotted in Japan, indicating a broader rollout of these features.
Google Tests Moving Search Results Count to Tools Menu
Google is experimenting with moving the “About results” count—typically displayed beneath the search bar—to the “Tools” menu within search results. This change, observed by users and reported by Barry Schwartz, follows previous tests where Google either hid or removed the results count entirely. While Google hasn’t officially explained this adjustment, it aligns with their ongoing efforts to streamline the search interface and possibly deemphasize the estimated results count, which they consider a rough approximation.
PPC Related News and Updates from Major Platforms
Google Introduces AI Max for Enhanced Search Campaigns
Google has unveiled AI Max, a new feature suite for Search campaigns that leverages advanced AI to enhance targeting and creative elements. AI Max expands upon existing keywords using broad match and keywordless technology to identify high-performing search queries. It also offers improved asset generation based on landing pages, ads, and keywords, and provides more precise controls, including location targeting and brand associations. This feature is set to roll out globally in beta later this month.
Google Ads Tests Simplified Ad Group Interface for Search Campaigns
Google is testing a streamlined ad group creation interface within the Google Ads Search campaigns console. This new design appears to simplify the process by offering fewer options compared to the current version, potentially enhancing user experience. The interface resembles the visual structure used in Demand Gen campaigns, indicating a move towards a more unified design across different campaign types.
Google Tests “Lowest in 30 Days” Label on Shopping Ads
Google is testing a new “Lowest in 30 days” label on Shopping ads to highlight products at their lowest price point in the past month. This green label aims to assist users in identifying significant price drops, enhancing transparency in online shopping. Additionally, Google is displaying a “30-day returns (most)” label, though it’s unclear how new this feature is.
