Google Launches WhatsApp and SMS Chat for U.S. Businesses
Google has brought text messaging and WhatsApp chat capabilities to its Google Business Profiles for U.S.-based businesses. Already available in select international markets, this feature is now rolling out domestically, revolutionizing how businesses communicate with their customers. Business owners in the U.S. can now find this option when updating their contact information. However, recent developments … Google Launches WhatsApp and SMS Chat for U.S. Businesses
Zulekha Nishad
Brave’s ‘Rerank’ Gives You the Power to Control Search Results
Brave Search has launched “Rerank,” a new feature that puts users in control of their search results. With this tool, you can promote trusted websites and demote or eliminate ones you dislike—all while keeping your data private. Unlike traditional search engines, Brave’s Rerank ensures transparency and personalization without tracking or hidden algorithms. Search Results, Your … Brave’s ‘Rerank’ Gives You the Power to Control Search Results
Zulekha Nishad
Google’s New Rules to Fight Spam in Search Results
To enhance search results, Google has revised its Search Quality Raters Guidelines, focusing heavily on identifying and eliminating spam. This update, released nearly a year after the last one, brings a fresh set of standards for evaluating search content while ensuring user-first experiences. If you run a website or care about how content ranks in … Google’s New Rules to Fight Spam in Search Results
Zulekha Nishad
How AI Overviews (AI Featured Snippets) Are Transforming Search Results
The landscape of search is changing faster than ever, thanks to the steady rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and large language models. While traditional featured snippets once dominated “Position Zero,” AI-generated summaries— officially called AI Overviews—are now making their mark on Google search engine results pages (SERPs). These AI-powered summaries help answer user queries in … How AI Overviews (AI Featured Snippets) Are Transforming Search Results
Dileep Thekkethil
Google Removes Breadcrumbs from URLs for Mobile Users
Google has simplified mobile search results by removing complex breadcrumbs from URLs. Now, only the domain name is displayed, making it easier for users to quickly identify the source of information and improving the overall mobile search experience. This change applies to all languages and regions where Google Search is available, while breadcrumbs will still … Google Removes Breadcrumbs from URLs for Mobile Users
Zulekha Nishad
Does Generative AI Use Structured Data for Results
In SEO circles, a heated debate has been brewing on whether or not structured data affects rankings in AI-powered search engines. Some SEOs suggest that adding structured data can influence the outputs of large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT or Gemini. But is this claim grounded in fact, or just a misinterpretation of how AI … Does Generative AI Use Structured Data for Results
Zulekha Nishad
U.S. Users Get Access to X’s Video Tab
X has officially rolled out a dedicated video tab for its U.S. users. Located in the bottom navigation bar, this new feature offers a seamless way to access a full-screen, immersive video feed. This shows X’s commitment to transforming into a video-first platform and reflects a growing trend in digital content consumption. A New Way … U.S. Users Get Access to X’s Video Tab
Zulekha Nishad
Sonar API by Perplexity: Real-Time AI Search for All
Perplexity has launched Sonar, a powerful API that brings AI-driven search directly into applications. This innovation empowers businesses and developers with real-time, accurate, and reliable search results, setting a new standard for AI integration. From Apps to Everywhere: Sonar Redefines AI Search Sonar stands out by delivering factual, real-time answers sourced directly from the web. … Sonar API by Perplexity: Real-Time AI Search for All
Zulekha Nishad
Google Strengthens Guidelines on Site Reputation Abuse
Google has recently updated its documentation on site reputation abuse policies, aiming to make compliance simpler and more transparent. The tech giant has integrated comprehensive FAQs from a recent blog post into its official spam policy documentation. While no new rules have been introduced, these changes aim to simplify the often-complex world of digital compliance, … Google Strengthens Guidelines on Site Reputation Abuse
Zulekha Nishad
Why Your Google Ads Spend Fluctuates
If you’ve noticed your weekly Google Ads spending going up or down unexpectedly, you’re not alone. Ginny Marvin, Google’s Ad Liaison, recently explained the two big reasons behind this trend: shifts in market conditions and changes to campaign budgets. While the fluctuations can be frustrating, there’s good news—you’ll never overshoot your monthly budget. Here’s everything … Why Your Google Ads Spend Fluctuates
Zulekha Nishad
Google Says No to Frequent Robots.txt Updates
Think you can outsmart Google by frequently updating your robots.txt file? Think again! Google’s John Mueller has confirmed that this approach is ineffective because robots.txt files are cached for up to 24 hours. Frequent updates won’t deliver the real-time control you’re hoping for. The Robots.txt Trap: Why This Hack Fails The robots.txt file acts as … Google Says No to Frequent Robots.txt Updates
Zulekha Nishad
Google Now Requires JavaScript for Search
Google has made a major change to its search engine, now requiring JavaScript to access search results. This update is aimed at blocking bots and scrapers, introducing new challenges for SEO tools and marketers. What’s Happening? Google Search now mandates JavaScript for all users, including automated tools. If JavaScript isn’t enabled, users are greeted with … Google Now Requires JavaScript for Search
Zulekha Nishad
Scammers Exploit Google Ads to Steal Login Details
A dangerous new phishing scam has emerged, targeting users through Google Ads and stealing their Google account credentials. The scam uses fake Google Sites pages designed to trick users into providing sensitive information. Here’s what you need to know and how to stay safe. Phishing in Plain Sight When users click on certain Google Ads, … Scammers Exploit Google Ads to Steal Login Details
Zulekha Nishad
Google Blocks Scrapers, SEO Tools Face Global Chaos
Global SEO tools have hit a roadblock. Google has tightened its grip on search result scraping, causing widespread outages in rank-tracking services like SEMrush. Marketers are left asking: What happens now? Scraping Blocked: What’s Going On? Google has escalated its fight against search result scraping, a practice that fuels many SEO tools. These tools extract … Google Blocks Scrapers, SEO Tools Face Global Chaos
Zulekha Nishad
Google Monitors AI Content to Maintain Search Quality
A recent discovery has revealed that Google actively detects and treats AI-generated content as part of its effort to maintain search quality. This evidence, found in a Googler’s LinkedIn profile, gives us clarity on how the tech giant is addressing the rise of AI in publishing and what it means for content creators and marketers. … Google Monitors AI Content to Maintain Search Quality
Zulekha Nishad
Microsoft AI Bing Image Creator: Everything You Need to Know
Microsoft’s launch of an update to its AI-powered Bing Image Creator initially generated excitement in the tech world, but the rollout soon became controversial as users expressed dissatisfaction. The update, powered by the upgraded DALL-E 3 model, promised improved image quality and enhanced capabilities. However, what followed was an unexpected wave of complaints, prompting Microsoft … Microsoft AI Bing Image Creator: Everything You Need to Know
Zulekha Nishad
Microsoft Clarity Teams Up with Google Ads
Microsoft Clarity has brought to light an exciting new integration with Google Ads, providing advertisers with exceptional insights into what happens after a click. This innovation bridges the long-standing gap between ad spending and real user engagement, transforming how marketers optimize their campaigns. Turning Clicks into Conversations Say goodbye to the days of incomplete data. … Microsoft Clarity Teams Up with Google Ads
Zulekha Nishad
ChatGPT Introduces Scheduled Tasks: Revolutionizing Work Automation
Stan Ventures SEO Insights OpenAI has rolled out Scheduled Tasks in ChatGPT, now available in beta for Plus, Pro, and Team plan users. This groundbreaking feature enables users to automate recurring tasks, reminders, and interactions across platforms, positioning ChatGPT as a more proactive and integral tool for work and personal life. What Are Scheduled Tasks? … ChatGPT Introduces Scheduled Tasks: Revolutionizing Work Automation
Dileep Thekkethil
Meta Drops Fact-Checking for Community Notes
Meta, the company behind Facebook and Instagram, is making headlines with a controversial decision to abandon its fact-checking program in favor of a new moderation system inspired by X’s “Community Notes.” While Zuckerberg frames it as a push for free speech and simplicity, many are asking: what’s really behind this decision? What’s Happening and Why … Meta Drops Fact-Checking for Community Notes
Zulekha Nishad
Google Shuts Down Web Vitals Extension
Google has officially retired its Web Vitals Chrome extension, directing developers to DevTools for all Core Web Vitals monitoring. With the release of Chrome 132 in January 2025, this move signifies Google’s focus on streamlining web performance analysis within its robust DevTools ecosystem. Here’s why this matters, how it impacts developers, and what’s next in … Google Shuts Down Web Vitals Extension
Zulekha Nishad
Search Loophole? Google AI Shows Penalized Content
Did you know that even sites penalized by Google’s search algorithms can still appear in its AI-generated overviews? This unusual phenomenon—highlighted by industry experts—reveals that pages with manual actions imposed on them, which prevent their ranking in traditional search results, can still make their way to the top of AI overview panels. Let’s unpack how … Search Loophole? Google AI Shows Penalized Content
Zulekha Nishad
Paid Search Leads Record Holiday Sales in 2024
The 2024 holiday shopping season made headlines with an astonishing $241.4 billion in online sales, a remarkable 8.7% jump compared to 2023. This unprecedented surge highlights the powerful combination of strategic paid search advertising, the growing dominance of mobile shopping, and the game-changing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in retail. Paid Search Leads the Charge … Paid Search Leads Record Holiday Sales in 2024
Zulekha Nishad
How Google Ranks Dominate ChatGPT Mentions
Artificial intelligence is transforming how brands appear in online answers, with new insights unveiling why some brands dominate AI-generated content. A deeper look shows that Google rankings are king, while old-school SEO tactics like backlinks are losing their power. AI’s New Visibility Formula Just think of asking ChatGPT for the best CRM software and immediately … How Google Ranks Dominate ChatGPT Mentions
Zulekha Nishad
Are URLs Case Sensitive? Insights from Google’s John Mueller
Have you ever encountered a frustrating 404 error after carefully typing a URL? The issue might be more technical than you think—stemming from case sensitivity in URLs. While it may seem like a trivial detail, case sensitivity can have far-reaching implications for website performance, user experience, and SEO. Recently, Google’s John Mueller addressed this topic … Are URLs Case Sensitive? Insights from Google’s John Mueller
Zulekha Nishad
Google’s Barry Pollard Reveals Vital Fixes for Website Speed Issues
Google Chrome’s Barry Pollard has explained ways to fix the Largest Contentful Paint (LCP) issues, a critical metric for website speed and SEO rankings. In his latest insights, Pollard explains how poor server response times, hidden inefficiencies, and misguided debugging are often the culprits behind slow load times. His solutions promise faster websites, better user … Google’s Barry Pollard Reveals Vital Fixes for Website Speed Issues
Zulekha Nishad
AI Link Building Content: Is it Considered Spam?
Generative AI is transforming industries, but its misuse has sparked new controversies. Google’s John Mueller recently brought attention to the growing concern over AI content specifically designed to aid in link building. Such practices, he emphasized, are “almost certainly against Google’s spam policies”, if not done the right way. The incident unfolded when Becca Harrison, … AI Link Building Content: Is it Considered Spam?
Zulekha Nishad
Reddit’s Google Rankings Drop: What’s Behind It?
Reddit, once a steadfast presence in Google search results, is suddenly losing its foothold. Tools like Semrush and Sistrix reveal a notable dip in its visibility, sparking a wave of speculation and concern among SEO experts and digital content creators. Reddit Takes a Hit in Search Visibility On January 7th, the SEO community started noticing … Reddit’s Google Rankings Drop: What’s Behind It?
Zulekha Nishad
Google Introduces “Daily Listen”: A Personalized Audio News Feed
Google has introduced “Daily Listen,” an experimental feature delivering personalized, five-minute audio updates on topics tailored to your interests. This hands-free, AI-curated news service is now accessible via the Google app on iOS and Android, marking a significant evolution in how users stay informed. A Fresh Way to Stay Updated Google’s “Daily Listen” blends the … Google Introduces “Daily Listen”: A Personalized Audio News Feed
Zulekha Nishad
What Consumers Want from Brands on Social Media
Social media has become more than a platform—it’s a space where culture, commerce, and connection thrive. As I explore how billions of users shape trends and influence opinions daily, I see clearly how the stakes for brands have never been higher. The insights from the Sprout Social Index 2025 have helped me understand actionable strategies … What Consumers Want from Brands on Social Media
Zulekha Nishad
Server-Side vs Client-Side Rendering: What Google Recommends
When it comes to building a successful website, the stakes are high. Performance, user experience, and search visibility are critical—and at the heart of it all lies a technical decision that can make or break your website: rendering. Martin Splitt took to the Search Central stage to explain website rendering strategies in a concise yet … Server-Side vs Client-Side Rendering: What Google Recommends
Zulekha Nishad
Google SPN Ads: The 37% Gap That’s Costing Marketers
Ads on Google’s Search Partner Network (SPN) deliver a return on ad spend (ROAS) that’s 37% lower than ads shown on Google Search. This surprising insight, revealed by digital marketing expert Mike Ryan, has marketers questioning whether SPN placements are worth their budget. Ryan’s analysis shows that while SPN ads cost less, they convert far … Google SPN Ads: The 37% Gap That’s Costing Marketers
Zulekha Nishad
Google Ranking Fluctuations: Why Do SERPs Change So Often?
If you’ve been keeping an eye on your website’s performance, you may have noticed seemingly random bumps and dips in organic rankings. At Stan Ventures, we often receive queries from clients asking whether their recent ranking drop is cause for concern or just one of those “typical Google jitters.” Here’s the reality: Google makes thousands … Google Ranking Fluctuations: Why Do SERPs Change So Often?
Dileep Thekkethil
Google Search Console Introduces Hourly Data Export for 24-Hour Performance View
Google has once again enhanced its Search Console Performance reports, addressing user feedback with a highly requested feature. Following last month’s launch of the 24-hour view, which provides detailed insights into search performance metrics on an hourly basis, Google has now introduced the ability to export this data directly from the platform. The new export … Google Search Console Introduces Hourly Data Export for 24-Hour Performance View
Dileep Thekkethil
Microsoft Under Fire as Bing Mimics Google’s Homepage
Microsoft is facing sharp criticism after its search engine, Bing, introduced a new interface that mimics Google’s homepage. The move, which some have labeled deceptive, has sparked a backlash from Google Chrome’s security chief, Parisa Tabriz, who described it as “another tactic to confuse users and limit choice.” Bing’s Google-Inspired Redesign The controversy erupted when … Microsoft Under Fire as Bing Mimics Google’s Homepage
Zulekha Nishad
Google’s Performance Max Campaign: Placement Rules Stir Confusion
Advertisers are scratching their heads over Google’s Performance Max (PMax) campaigns due to mixed signals about placement exclusions. Google’s official guidelines say API-based exclusions don’t work for PMax campaigns, but many advertisers report success using them. This mismatch is creating uncertainty and raising concerns about campaign control and brand safety. Here’s a closer look at … Google’s Performance Max Campaign: Placement Rules Stir Confusion
Zulekha Nishad
Google’s $100M Deal: A Lifeline for Canadian News or a Strategic Dodge?
Google has officially handed over $100 million to the Canadian Journalism Collective in a move that balances a lifeline to struggling news outlets with a savvy sidestep of the Online News Act’s obligations. This payout allows the tech giant to avoid paying individual Canadian news outlets for the content it uses while helping keep journalism … Google’s $100M Deal: A Lifeline for Canadian News or a Strategic Dodge?
Zulekha Nishad
Chrome’s Heavy Ad Intervention: Faster Browsing for All
Google Chrome’s “heavy ad intervention” feature removes ads that exceed resource limits, aiming to improve browsing efficiency. The feature automatically flags ads that overuse CPU or download excessive data, as seen in Glenn Gabe’s example of an ad removal on a New York Times page. These flagged ads are replaced with a placeholder message: “Ad … Chrome’s Heavy Ad Intervention: Faster Browsing for All
Zulekha Nishad
How Buying Fake Reviews Could Dim Your Business’ Future
Buying fake Google reviews might seem like a quick way to boost your business, but it could cost you everything. In a recent SEO On-Air podcast by Stan Ventures, host Steve Olenski and SEO expert Joy Hawkins revealed the escalating risks of review manipulation. Hawkins, known for her expertise in local SEO, reinforced this with … How Buying Fake Reviews Could Dim Your Business’ Future
Zulekha Nishad
How Googlebot Sees Your Website: Insights for Website Owners
Knowing how Googlebot sees your website is crucial for ensuring your content gets indexed and ranked appropriately. At Stan Ventures, we often encounter clients curious about why their pages aren’t performing as expected. A significant part of the solution lies in diagnosing how Googlebot interacts with their site. Let’s explore what Googlebot sees, why it … How Googlebot Sees Your Website: Insights for Website Owners
Dileep Thekkethil
Is SEO Really Dying? Google’s Podcast Sparks Big Questions
Google’s recent Search Off the Record podcast stirred up a big debate over whether SEO is fading away due to AI-powered search. This has left many marketers, publishers, and businesses wondering about the future of their strategies. What Google Said About SEO and AI In the podcast, John Mueller asked the bold question: “Is … Is SEO Really Dying? Google’s Podcast Sparks Big Questions
Zulekha Nishad
Unbiased Search Engines in AI Age: Myth or Reality?
Search engines shape the way we see the world, but did you know their results might not be as impartial as they seem? Corporate interests, algorithms, and biased AI training data could all be steering what you find online. As artificial intelligence becomes more integrated into search technologies, ensuring fairness in the information we access … Unbiased Search Engines in AI Age: Myth or Reality?
Zulekha Nishad
Google Tests AI-Generated ‘Things To Know’ Section in Search
Google is experimenting with using its advanced AI, Gemini, to create the “Things to Know” section in its search results. This could soon replace the familiar featured snippets with more dynamic, AI-driven overviews. This initiative is a key part of Google’s strategy to improve how people find and use information online, and it’s already stirring … Google Tests AI-Generated ‘Things To Know’ Section in Search
Zulekha Nishad
Google’s Page Annotations: A Feature Sparking Controversy Among Creators
Google’s “Page Annotations,” feature is sparking interest and stirring conversations all over the digital world. Aimed at giving users even more insightful context, this feature gently adds clickable links on websites, guiding users directly to Google’s search results. While marketed as a user-friendly enhancement, it has been criticized for hijacking website traffic and undermining creators’ … Google’s Page Annotations: A Feature Sparking Controversy Among Creators
Zulekha Nishad
WhatsApp Reverse Image Search Feature Can Tackle Misinformation
WhatsApp is rolling out two exciting updates designed to make the app more useful and reliable for its users. These features include a reverse image search tool to help verify shared images and a document scanning feature for iOS users. Both updates aim to tackle misinformation and make everyday tasks easier for everyone. Fighting Fake … WhatsApp Reverse Image Search Feature Can Tackle Misinformation
Zulekha Nishad
Google’s CEO Sets Big Goals for AI in 2025: Can Gemini Beat ChatGPT?
Google CEO Sundar Pichai has raised a significant concern about ChatGPT’s growing dominance in the AI space. During a recent strategy meeting with employees, Pichai emphasized the urgent need to scale Gemini, Google’s flagship AI model, as a consumer-facing product. He outlined a vision for 2025, stressing that the stakes are high in the competitive … Google’s CEO Sets Big Goals for AI in 2025: Can Gemini Beat ChatGPT?
Zulekha Nishad
11 Alternatives to Twitter for 2025
Social media platforms are always changing, but few of them have experienced as much turbulence as Twitter in recent years. From controversial policy updates to shifts in leadership, many users have begun seeking out alternatives that better align with their preferences for content, privacy, and user experience. As we look toward 2025, a variety of … 11 Alternatives to Twitter for 2025
Zulekha Nishad
Google’s New Ad Rule: No Ads for Penalized Websites
Google is rolling out a major change to its ad policies starting December 2024. If your ad links to a website that has been penalized by Google Search for breaking spam rules, that ad will no longer be allowed. This new rule specifically targets sites flagged by Google with a “manual action.” A manual action … Google’s New Ad Rule: No Ads for Penalized Websites
Zulekha Nishad
Google’s Search Shake-Up: Small Websites Struggle to Survive
Recent changes to Google’s search algorithm are creating a storm for smaller websites, many of which are finding it harder than ever to compete. With Google controlling over 86% of global internet searches, the company’s updates—like the recent “helpful content update”—are reshaping the digital landscape, not always for the better. While Google aims to prioritize … Google’s Search Shake-Up: Small Websites Struggle to Survive
Zulekha Nishad
Google’s Top Searches of 2024: What the World Was Curious About
Each year, Google releases its “Year in Search” report, giving us a peek into what people searched for the most. In 2024, the report revealed trends that show how we connected with sports, stayed updated on big news, and explored entertainment and lifestyle ideas. Here’s everything you need to know about the searches that defined … Google’s Top Searches of 2024: What the World Was Curious About
Zulekha Nishad
Google Proposes Changes in DOJ Antitrust Case
Google has submitted its proposed remedies in the ongoing antitrust case brought by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). This move aims to address allegations of monopolistic practices. The remedies, filed as part of the legal process, will undergo review during a court hearing scheduled for April 2025. Details of the Remedies Google’s proposals include … Google Proposes Changes in DOJ Antitrust Case
Zulekha Nishad
X Stuns Users with Premium+ Price Hike
X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, has announced a dramatic price increase for its Premium+ subscription. Effective December 21, U.S. users will now see their monthly subscription costs jump by a staggering 37.5%, from $16 to $22 — the largest hike since Elon Musk took the reins in 2022. A New Reality for Premium+ … X Stuns Users with Premium+ Price Hike
Zulekha Nishad
AI Bots Overtake 28% of Googlebot Traffic
A striking new study reveals that AI-driven bots now make up 28% of Googlebot’s total traffic, signaling a dramatic shift in the web crawling ecosystem. With OpenAI’s GPTBot and Anthropic’s Claude leading the charge, the rules of search engine optimization (SEO) are being rewritten. Here’s what’s happening and how it’ll affect your website. The Rise … AI Bots Overtake 28% of Googlebot Traffic
Zulekha Nishad
Google Rolls Out December 2024 Spam Update
Google has launched its December spam update, marking the final push in a year of sweeping changes to its search algorithms. Expected to be completed within a week, the update wraps up a transformative 2024 aimed at tackling spam and boosting content quality. This latest rollout follows closely on the heels of December’s core update, … Google Rolls Out December 2024 Spam Update
Zulekha Nishad
How Micro-Communities Are Redefining Social Media Marketing
Micro-communities are emerging as a transformative force in social media marketing, offering businesses new ways to connect with audiences on a deeper level. These small, targeted online groups are becoming a key strategy for brands looking to foster authentic engagement and build stronger relationships. Here is a detailed look at why micro-communities matter and how … How Micro-Communities Are Redefining Social Media Marketing
Zulekha Nishad
ChatGPT Now Accessible Via Phone and WhatsApp
OpenAI has announced 1-800-ChatGPT, a groundbreaking service that lets users connect with its AI directly via phone calls or WhatsApp messages. This innovative approach redefines accessibility, offering a seamless and personal way to interact with ChatGPT without relying on traditional tech setups. Here’s everything you need to know about this update. AI That Speaks … ChatGPT Now Accessible Via Phone and WhatsApp
Zulekha Nishad
Google Ads in Organic Search: Understanding the Shift in Ad Placement
Google has long been the dominant force in online advertising, driving billions of dollars in revenue through its powerful advertising platform, Google Ads. Traditionally, Google Ads have been prominently displayed at the top of search results, alongside organic search listings. However, recent developments indicate a significant shift in how ads are placed in organic search … Google Ads in Organic Search: Understanding the Shift in Ad Placement
Zulekha Nishad
Google Wraps Up the December 2024 Core Update
Google completed its fourth and final core update of 2024 in just six days, from December 12 to December 18. This rapid update followed November’s changes, creating significant volatility in search rankings across various industries. Businesses and SEO professionals are now analyzing its impact while adapting to Google’s ongoing emphasis on helpful, user-first content. Here’s … Google Wraps Up the December 2024 Core Update
Zulekha Nishad
Toxic Links Aren’t Worth Disavowing, Says Mueller
In a recent exchange on the social platform Bluesky, John Mueller dismissed the common SEO practice of disavowing “toxic” links, calling it a “billable waste of time.” This statement has sparked debate within the SEO community, where the use of tools that flag so-called toxic links remains a widely promoted practice. Mueller’s candid remarks underline … Toxic Links Aren’t Worth Disavowing, Says Mueller
Zulekha Nishad
Elon Musk: Stop Using Hashtags—They’re Ugly and Useless
Elon Musk has stirred up some debate on social media once again, but this time, it’s about hashtags. The CEO of X (formerly known as Twitter) recently took to the platform with a bold statement: “Please stop using hashtags. The system doesn’t need them anymore and they look ugly.” This tweet came right after a … Elon Musk: Stop Using Hashtags—They’re Ugly and Useless
Zulekha Nishad
Forbes Ends Freelance Contributions: Google’s SEO Policies Spark Big Changes
Forbes has announced a major shift in its content strategy, ceasing the use of freelancers for certain stories, including its widely read “Forbes Vetted” product review section. This move, attributed to Google’s updated SEO policies, has sent ripples through the freelance journalism community and beyond. Why Did Forbes Make This Move? The decision stems from … Forbes Ends Freelance Contributions: Google’s SEO Policies Spark Big Changes
Zulekha Nishad
ChatGPT Search Is Now Free For All Users
Exciting news for all ChatGPT users! OpenAI has just made its ChatGPT Search feature free for everyone who uses the platform, no matter what type of account they have. This is a huge step forward, allowing millions of people to access real-time web search within ChatGPT. The change, announced during OpenAI’s “12 Days of OpenAI” … ChatGPT Search Is Now Free For All Users
Zulekha Nishad
How Google Ranks Sites: What Every SEO Must Know
Mark Williams-Cook, an SEO expert and director at Candour Agency, recently gave a mind-blowing presentation on how Google’s ranking system really works. His team uncovered hidden Google data from over 90 million search queries and 2,000 properties, offering a rare glimpse into the search giant’s thought process. From site quality scores to consensus-based rankings, Williams-Cook’s … How Google Ranks Sites: What Every SEO Must Know
Zulekha Nishad
Stop Losing Traffic: How to Solve Google Crawling Errors
Millions of websites compete for attention on Google, but some never make it into the search results. Why? Crawling errors. Martin Splitt from Google Search Central reveals the top three ways to identify and fix these errors that might be keeping your site out of Google’s index. Here’s a deep dive into his advice, the … Stop Losing Traffic: How to Solve Google Crawling Errors
Zulekha Nishad
Google Search Central Conference 2024: Key Takeaways
The Google Search Central Conference 2024, held in Zurich, provided a treasure trove of insights for SEO professionals, webmasters, and digital marketers. As Jonathan Jones highlighted in his detailed coverage, the event featured key discussions around frequent core updates, AI’s evolving role, and strategies for improving content and site reputation. Key Highlights from the Conference … Google Search Central Conference 2024: Key Takeaways
Zulekha Nishad
Google Search Console Introduces 24-Hour View
Google has introduced a new feature in its Search Console called the “24 hours” view. This update lets website owners see how their content performs almost in real time, with fresh data available every hour. It’s designed to give businesses, marketers, and content creators the tools they need to monitor and adjust their strategies quickly. … Google Search Console Introduces 24-Hour View
Zulekha Nishad
How to Turn Off Google Personalized Search Results
Google’s personalized search results are tailored to provide content based on your activity, preferences, and search history. While this feature can make searches more convenient, it’s not always ideal for those who value privacy or wish to view results without any bias. Clearing your browser cache may seem like a simple fix, but it won’t … How to Turn Off Google Personalized Search Results
Dileep Thekkethil
Google’s December 2024 Core Update Launches Ahead of the Holidays
Google surprised everyone by starting the rollout of December 2024 Core Update right after the November Core Update, which ended earlier this week. For website owners and SEOs who were expecting a break during the holidays, this news might feel like a bummer. It could change how well websites perform during one of the busiest … Google’s December 2024 Core Update Launches Ahead of the Holidays
Dileep Thekkethil
Gemini 2.0 Flash: The Future of Google Search and AI Innovation
Google has unveiled Gemini 2.0 Flash, the next step in its artificial intelligence journey, designed to transform how we search, interact with, and utilize information. As part of its ongoing evolution in AI, Gemini 2.0 Flash introduces cutting-edge capabilities that promise faster, more intelligent solutions to even the most complex queries. This launch builds on … Gemini 2.0 Flash: The Future of Google Search and AI Innovation
Zulekha Nishad
Court Sides with WP Engine Over Automattic
In a major court decision, WP Engine has taken a significant step forward in its legal battle against Automattic and its founder, Matt Mullenweg, over WordPress ecosystem practices. A judge granted WP Engine’s request for a preliminary injunction, requiring Automattic to reverse several actions within 72 hours. This decision has drawn widespread attention in the … Court Sides with WP Engine Over Automattic
Zulekha Nishad
Google Removes Analytics Data From Search Console Insights
Google has announced a major change in its Search Console Insights tool by removing Google Analytics data from its reporting. While the tool will now solely focus on Search Console metrics, this update has sparked a mix of curiosity and concern among marketers and webmasters who relied on its comprehensive data view. Google’s Move: Simplification … Google Removes Analytics Data From Search Console Insights
Zulekha Nishad
Google Asks Websites to Embrace Caching for Faster Crawling
In a notable update, Google has revised its crawler documentation to emphasize the importance of HTTP caching. The newly added section explains how Google’s crawlers manage cache control headers, urging website owners to adopt caching best practices. Alongside this, Gary Illyes wrote a Google blog post humorously pleading with website owners to allow caching, starting … Google Asks Websites to Embrace Caching for Faster Crawling
Zulekha Nishad
Keyword Stuffing in 2025: Its Impact and Google Recommendations
If you’ve been in the SEO world for a while, you already know keyword stuffing—the excessive repetition of keywords to manipulate rankings—is a losing strategy. And yet, here as we step into 2025, we still see websites falling into this trap. Let’s dive into how keyword stuffing continues to impact rankings and why Google’s guidance … Keyword Stuffing in 2025: Its Impact and Google Recommendations
Dileep Thekkethil
Google’s Search Indexing Delay Sparks Concern for Website Owners
On December 9, 2024, Google confirmed an issue affecting its search indexing system. This glitch delays how quickly new content appears in search results. While the company says it impacts only a “small number” of websites, the problem could still significantly challenge publishers, businesses, and e-commerce platforms that rely on being visible online. Here’s everything … Google’s Search Indexing Delay Sparks Concern for Website Owners
Zulekha Nishad
OpenAI Launches Sora: Transform Text into Stunning Videos
OpenAI has officially launched Sora, its revolutionary AI-powered text-to-video tool, making it available to the public for the first time. Announced as part of OpenAI’s “12 Days of Ship-mas” rollout event, this tool aims to simplify video creation by allowing users to generate videos from just a few lines of text. Our holiday gift … OpenAI Launches Sora: Transform Text into Stunning Videos
Zulekha Nishad
40 Key Factors Influencing Google Canonical URL Selection
Canonicalization is the process where Google determines the “best” version of a URL among duplicates or near-duplicates. It’s a critical part of SEO since the chosen canonical URL accumulates the authority, backlinks, and ranking potential. Recently, in the Search Off the Record podcast, Google revealed insights about the 40 factors influencing canonicalization. They jokingly predicted … 40 Key Factors Influencing Google Canonical URL Selection
Dileep Thekkethil
Google Search Is Changing Big Time in 2025, Says CEO Sundar Pichai
Google Search, something billions of us use every day, is about to get a major upgrade. According to Sundar Pichai, Google’s CEO, the changes coming in 2025 will blow our minds. He shared this during a recent talk at the New York Times DealBook Summit, teasing big things on the horizon. “Search itself will continue … Google Search Is Changing Big Time in 2025, Says CEO Sundar Pichai
Zulekha Nishad
Google Reveals Secrets Behind Clustering and Localization
Ever wondered why Google sometimes shows the wrong version of your website to users in different countries? This conundrum often stems from the sophisticated process of clustering in Google’s search algorithm. During a recent Search Off the Record podcast episode, Martin, John, and Allan Scott from Google’s Duplication (Dupes) team unpacked the nuances of clustering, … Google Reveals Secrets Behind Clustering and Localization
Zulekha Nishad
OpenAI Launches ChatGPT o1: The World’s Smartest AI Yet
OpenAI has just launched ChatGPT o1, the smartest AI model to date, and introduced a new subscription plan, ChatGPT Pro, for $200 per month. This model is faster, smarter, and now multimodal—meaning it can process images along with text. Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting update. Smarter, Faster, and Multimodal ChatGPT o1, … OpenAI Launches ChatGPT o1: The World’s Smartest AI Yet
Zulekha Nishad
Google Completes November 2024 Update
Google has officially completed its November 2024 core update. This update, which started on November 11 and wrapped up on December 5, was part of Google’s ongoing efforts to improve search results. The goal? To show people more useful, relevant content while filtering out material created just to rank well on search engines. This update … Google Completes November 2024 Update
Zulekha Nishad
Google’s Martin Splitt Explains Robots.txt Best Practices
In a Google Search Central Lightning Talk, Martin Splitt of Google shared a comprehensive breakdown of how to use robots.txt, robots meta tags, and HTTP headers to control what search engines can access and index on your website. These tools are indispensable for website owners who want to safeguard sensitive content, optimize search performance, and … Google’s Martin Splitt Explains Robots.txt Best Practices
Zulekha Nishad
How Hosting Resources on CDNs Improves Crawl Efficiency
Google has shared new recommendations to help websites manage their crawl budget better and improve how their content appears in search results. Through its “Crawling December” series, Google is teaching website owners and developers how its crawler, Googlebot, works behind the scenes. The latest advice focuses on a critical but often overlooked topic: managing your … How Hosting Resources on CDNs Improves Crawl Efficiency
Zulekha Nishad
What 332 Million Searches Reveal About User Behavior on Google
In a study spearheaded by Rand Fishkin and SparkToro in collaboration with Datos, an Semrush company, researchers have unlocked fascinating insights into how people interact with Google, the world’s dominant search engine. Over a staggering 21-month period, 332 million Google searches were analyzed across 130,000 U.S. devices, revealing the hidden mechanics of online behavior. How … What 332 Million Searches Reveal About User Behavior on Google
Zulekha Nishad
Google Clarifies Why Business Names Don’t Guarantee Rankings
In a conversation on the Bluesky platform, John Mueller shared valuable advice for business owners frustrated by their search engine rankings. When asked why a company wasn’t appearing at the top of search results for its new name, Mueller offered a reality check: simply naming your business or changing its name doesn’t automatically rank it … Google Clarifies Why Business Names Don’t Guarantee Rankings
Zulekha Nishad
What is Site Engagement, and Does it Affect SEO?
The internet is bursting with activity, with websites vying for user attention and search engine rankings. However, one question continues to spark debate: How much does site engagement influence search engine optimization? While Google has not officially ruled on this relationship, digging deeper reveals intriguing insights. This article unpacks the concept of site engagement, its … What is Site Engagement, and Does it Affect SEO?
Zulekha Nishad
What the Latest BrightEdge Report Means for AI Search Trends
A new report from BrightEdge highlights significant developments in the world of AI-driven overviews (AIOs). Over the past two months, these AI-powered tools have stabilized across many sectors, while others, like travel and video content, have seen dramatic growth. This stabilization and targeted expansion offer unique insights into how artificial intelligence is reshaping the way … What the Latest BrightEdge Report Means for AI Search Trends
Zulekha Nishad
Why Google Doesn’t Warn About Penalties: John Mueller Explains
Google’s treatment of website penalties has long been a hot topic, and the debate recently took center stage again following a pointed question posed by Vlad Melnic on LinkedIn. The query directly challenged the tech giant’s policy regarding manual actions that drastically affect website visibility on search engine result pages (SERPs) and, consequently, businesses’ revenue … Why Google Doesn’t Warn About Penalties: John Mueller Explains
Zulekha Nishad
Google “Fake Links” Stir Controversy Among Marketers
Anthony Higman, a prominent voice in digital marketing, recently ignited a firestorm of discussion with his pointed critique of a new Google feature. In a series of tweets, Higman shed light on what he terms “fake links,” a Google experiment that redirects users back to search engine results pages (SERPs) from websites. This feature highlights … Google “Fake Links” Stir Controversy Among Marketers
Zulekha Nishad
Reddit Plans Global Growth with New Features and Ad Push
Reddit is making a major push to grow its international user base and boost advertising revenue. With over half its current users located outside the United States, Reddit is setting its sights on countries like India and Brazil to unlock untapped opportunities. Jen Wong, the company’s Chief Operating Officer, detailed the strategy, highlighting new tools … Reddit Plans Global Growth with New Features and Ad Push
Zulekha Nishad
E-Commerce’s Organic Traffic Crisis
E-commerce businesses, especially in the US and UK, are grappling with a significant decline in organic search traffic. Despite achieving high rankings, many are finding that their visibility no longer translates to clicks. SEO expert Aleyda Solis recently broke down this alarming trend in a viral tweet, shedding light on the causes and offering strategies … E-Commerce’s Organic Traffic Crisis
Zulekha Nishad
Is Google Personalizing Search Results More Than Ever?
SEO experts are buzzing about changes in Google’s search results, suggesting that personalization has significantly increased. Some claim Google is now tailoring search results based on individual user behavior, making it harder to track consistent rankings. But what’s really happening, and what does it mean for users and businesses? What Experts Are Seeing Many SEO … Is Google Personalizing Search Results More Than Ever?
Zulekha Nishad
Judge Leans Toward WP Engine in WordPress Dispute but Seeks Clarity
The legal fight between WP Engine and Automattic, the company behind WordPress, took a major turn this week. Judge Araceli Martínez-Olguín said she is inclined to grant WP Engine’s request for a preliminary injunction against Automattic. However, the judge pointed out that WP Engine’s proposal was too vague to move forward and asked both sides … Judge Leans Toward WP Engine in WordPress Dispute but Seeks Clarity
Zulekha Nishad
Google Says Goodbye to Explore and Continuous Scroll
Google has officially retired its Explore feature, an add-on introduced two and a half years ago to enhance search results by providing more discovery-based content. The change coincides with another significant update: the removal of continuous scroll on mobile search results, which Google discontinued in October following its earlier removal from desktop. Since Explore was … Google Says Goodbye to Explore and Continuous Scroll
Zulekha Nishad
DOJ Accuses Google of Monopolizing 91% of the Digital Ad Market
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has taken on Google in a high-stakes antitrust trial, accusing the tech giant of monopolizing the digital advertising industry to an unprecedented extent. According to the DOJ, Google controls 91% of key digital ad markets, creating a chokehold on competition and driving up costs for advertisers and publishers. Google, … DOJ Accuses Google of Monopolizing 91% of the Digital Ad Market
Zulekha Nishad
Google Launches Search Console Recommendations to All Users
Google has made its Search Console Recommendations feature available to all users, confirms the X post that appeared on the official Google Search Central handle. Originally introduced on August 5, 2024, as an experimental tool, this feature now provides website owners and SEOs with actionable insights to enhance their site’s visibility on Google Search. What … Google Launches Search Console Recommendations to All Users
Dileep Thekkethil
Google’s New Site Reputation Abuse Policy: A Blow to Affiliate Content?
Google’s sudden overhaul of its Site Reputation Abuse (SRA) policy has sparked widespread concern among publishers and digital marketers. Introduced in March 2023, the SRA policy provided an eight-month adjustment period to align with the rules. However, recent changes have eliminated safe harbor for affiliate content, leaving the industry grappling with uncertainty. The March Policy … Google’s New Site Reputation Abuse Policy: A Blow to Affiliate Content?
Zulekha Nishad
Google CTR Trends: Winners and Losers of Q3 2024
Google search click-through rates (CTR) saw major shifts in Q3 2024, revealing how industries, search intent, and mobile usage are shaping web traffic, says the report released by Advanced Web Rankings. Some sectors thrived, while others faced challenges, offering critical lessons for businesses relying on Google traffic. What’s Happening with CTRs? Click-through rate, or CTR, … Google CTR Trends: Winners and Losers of Q3 2024
Zulekha Nishad
Gemini Chatbot Gets Smarter with Memory Feature
Google’s Gemini chatbot is taking personalization to a whole new level. With its new memory feature, Gemini can now remember your preferences, personal details, and work habits. This update transforms the chatbot into a virtual assistant that feels smarter, more helpful, and uniquely tuned to your needs. Smarter, Tailored Interactions Google’s new memory feature personalizes … Gemini Chatbot Gets Smarter with Memory Feature
Zulekha Nishad
Will Google Sell Chrome Browser and Android OS?
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is calling for major changes at Google. To tackle what it claims are unfair monopolies in online search and advertising, the DOJ has proposed that Google sell its Chrome browser and possibly its Android operating system. What the DOJ Wants The DOJ claims that Google’s control of Chrome and … Will Google Sell Chrome Browser and Android OS?
Zulekha Nishad
ChatGPT Gains 4.33% Search Market Share: Threat to Google?
Google dominates the search world with 83.54% of the market, but OpenAI’s ChatGPT is making waves with a 4.33% share, according to recent data. With predictions of rapid growth, could ChatGPT eventually rival Google? Here’s what’s happening and why it matters. ChatGPT’s Market Share: The Facts Data from SimilarWeb and Datos, shared by Rand Fishkin … ChatGPT Gains 4.33% Search Market Share: Threat to Google?
Zulekha Nishad
AI Bots Are Now Outpacing Humans on the Internet
AI bots are fundamentally transforming the internet. What was once a human-dominated space is increasingly controlled by intelligent, autonomous bots that browse, act, and even make decisions. These bots, now responsible for 42% to 70% of all web traffic, are not just tools—they’re becoming influential players on the digital stage. Let’s explore how bots are … AI Bots Are Now Outpacing Humans on the Internet
Zulekha Nishad
Google Updates Site Reputation Abuse Policy
Google has made a significant update to its site reputation abuse policy, closing loopholes that previously allowed some websites to manipulate rankings through “parasite SEO.” The change, announced as part of the March 2024 core update, states that first-party involvement or oversight of third-party content no longer provides immunity. In short, if you host or … Google Updates Site Reputation Abuse Policy
Zulekha Nishad
Google’s Site-Level Algorithms: Debunking the Mystery Behind Rankings
The SEO community thrives on clarity, yet Google recently muddied the waters. At a Creator Summit, Pandu Nayak, Google’s VP of Search, claimed that rankings are evaluated at the page level rather than the site level. This assertion stunned industry experts, given years of Google’s documentation suggesting otherwise. SEO expert Glenn Gabe summed up the … Google’s Site-Level Algorithms: Debunking the Mystery Behind Rankings
Zulekha Nishad
Google Warns: Don’t Overuse “People Also Ask” for Content
If you’ve ever fallen into the rabbit hole of Google’s “People Also Ask” (PAA) feature to brainstorm content ideas, here’s a piece of advice straight from Google itself: tread carefully. John Mueller has cautioned against over-relying on mining data from features like PAA to fuel your content strategy. His warning is a reality check for … Google Warns: Don’t Overuse “People Also Ask” for Content
Zulekha Nishad
How Data Licensing from Google Could Reshape the SEO Landscape
The antitrust push against Google by the DOJ has opened up the potential for unprecedented changes in the SEO and digital landscape. While discussions about the forced sale of Chrome and other remedies continue, one proposal stands out for its potential to impact SEO enthusiasts and digital agency founders significantly: data licensing. This step could … How Data Licensing from Google Could Reshape the SEO Landscape
Dileep Thekkethil
Expired Domain Surge: A Curious Post Pandemic Phenomenon
When Bill Hartzer tweeted about the increasing trend of expired domain names, it hit home for us at Stan Ventures. We were on the front lines during the pandemic, witnessing firsthand how the global crisis pushed many to embrace the digital realm, launching businesses and side projects they’d only dreamed of before. However, as we … Expired Domain Surge: A Curious Post Pandemic Phenomenon
Dileep Thekkethil
Page Experience Report Removed from Search Console
Google Search Central today announced an important change in their Search Console tool: the removal of the Page Experience report. This decision has caught the attention of many website owners and SEO professionals. Below, we’ll break down what this change means and how it affects website management. What Was the Page Experience Report? The Page … Page Experience Report Removed from Search Console
Dileep Thekkethil
Top 10 Industries AI Is Revolutionizing Right Now
Artificial Intelligence (AI) isn’t just a sci-fi concept anymore—it’s here, changing how we live and work every day. From helping doctors find illnesses faster to predicting what show you’ll binge-watch next, AI has become a game-changer. It’s reshaping industries, improving efficiency, and personalizing services like never before. This detailed look at how AI is revolutionizing … Top 10 Industries AI Is Revolutionizing Right Now
Zulekha Nishad
Google Tests Rich Results for Product Variants
Google is shaking up the eCommerce landscape once again, this time with a test aimed at showcasing product variants directly in search results. This feature, spotted by SEO expert Brodie Clark, allows users to view multiple options, such as different colors or styles of a product, within a single snippet on the search engine results … Google Tests Rich Results for Product Variants
Zulekha Nishad
AhrefsBot: The SEO Industry’s Most Active Web Crawler Explained
As an SEO professional, staying ahead of the competition means having access to accurate, up-to-date data. One of the most powerful allies in this pursuit is AhrefsBot—the backbone of the data driving Ahrefs’ comprehensive SEO tools and its unique search engine, Yep. In a world where reliable information can make or break a strategy, understanding … AhrefsBot: The SEO Industry’s Most Active Web Crawler Explained
Dileep Thekkethil
SemrushBot: The Essential Web Crawler for SEO Insights
In the world of SEO, data is everything. Professionals like myself rely on accurate, timely information to craft effective strategies. SemrushBot is a powerful tool in this arsenal, driving Semrush’s data collection and making it a go-to platform for SEO insights. Understanding how SemrushBot works and what makes it unique can help SEO experts use … SemrushBot: The Essential Web Crawler for SEO Insights
Dileep Thekkethil
URL Structure Not A Big Ranking Factor, Confirms Google
In a recent LinkedIn post, Google’s John Mueller stirred up the SEO community by responding to digital marketing expert Jimmy Hartill, challenging the widespread belief that URL structure has a major impact on search rankings. According to Mueller, too many SEO specialists focus on perfecting URL formats, mistakenly thinking it will improve site rankings. He … URL Structure Not A Big Ranking Factor, Confirms Google
Zulekha Nishad
Google Clears the Air on Duplicate Content
Duplicate content on websites often sparks concerns over quality and rankings, especially for those in the SEO industry. Yet, contrary to popular belief, duplicate content isn’t the SEO villain many think it is. According to Google’s recent video led by Search Advocate Martin Splitt, duplicate content won’t harm your site’s quality score. However, it does … Google Clears the Air on Duplicate Content
Zulekha Nishad
Google’s Canonical Confusion: Is Your Traffic Going to Another Site?
Google’s URL Inspection Tool has been showing the wrong canonical URL — sometimes directing users to entirely different domains. This technical hiccup, or “Canonical Confusion” attack, can siphon traffic and visibility away from the original site, affecting both its reputation and search rankings. Google’s Tool Mislabels Canonicals, Diverting Your Traffic Content creators are reporting cases … Google’s Canonical Confusion: Is Your Traffic Going to Another Site?
Zulekha Nishad
Can You Be Banned from Google?
Google is everywhere in our lives. From email and maps to cloud storage and search results, we all rely on Google’s many services daily. But did you know that breaking some of Google’s rules could actually get you banned? That’s right; if you’re not careful, your account, website, or content could be cut off from … Can You Be Banned from Google?
Zulekha Nishad
Help a Reporter Out (HARO) to Shut Down in December 2024
It’s a bittersweet moment for those of us who have been faithful users of Help a Reporter Out (HARO). Come December 9, 2024, this essential service—now known as Connectively—will officially be discontinued. If you’ve relied on HARO over the years, this news might hit hard. I remember the days when HARO was my go-to for … Help a Reporter Out (HARO) to Shut Down in December 2024
Dileep Thekkethil
YouTube Rolls Out Data Stories & Tools for Creators’ Growth
YouTube is rolling out new features to give creators more power over their content and connections with fans. The latest tool, “Data Stories,” gives creators a snapshot of their video’s first 24 hours—data that helps them see exactly what’s working and what’s not. Paired with new tools for audience engagement and brand partnerships, YouTube is … YouTube Rolls Out Data Stories & Tools for Creators’ Growth
Zulekha Nishad
You.com Unveils “Research” Feature to AI Search Assistance
You.com, previously known as a standard search engine, has now evolved into an AI-powered search engine and personal assistant. With the aim of transforming how users handle everyday tasks, the platform has introduced a new and innovative feature called “Research.” This addition promises to take AI-driven search to the next level by enabling comprehensive research … You.com Unveils “Research” Feature to AI Search Assistance
Dileep Thekkethil
Sites Impacted by HCU See Modest Recovery, Says Glenn Gabe
When Google rolled out its September 2023 Helpful Content Update (HCU), websites worldwide were hit with big changes in traffic and rankings. Now, new insights from SEO expert Glenn Gabe shed light on what’s actually happening to these sites months later. Out of nearly 400 sites Gabe’s been tracking, only 22% have shown a 20% … Sites Impacted by HCU See Modest Recovery, Says Glenn Gabe
Zulekha Nishad
Rights Holders Ask Google to Take Down 10 Billion Pirate Links
In an unprecedented anti-piracy campaign, copyright holders have submitted over 10 billion takedown requests to Google, asking for the removal of links suspected of sharing pirated content. This staggering number showcases the relentless efforts of rights holders to curb piracy, but it also raises questions: can takedown requests alone keep pace with piracy? And how … Rights Holders Ask Google to Take Down 10 Billion Pirate Links
Zulekha Nishad
Conflicting Google Results? Here’s the Surprising Reason
Ever notice how Google’s answers at the top of search results don’t always line up? Depending on how you phrase your search, Google’s Featured Snippets can actually show opposing information from the same source. A recent study has uncovered this surprising glitch, raising concerns about whether Google is giving us helpful answers or just echoing … Conflicting Google Results? Here’s the Surprising Reason
Zulekha Nishad
Don’t Hire SEO! Google’s New SEO Advice Stirs Debate
Google recently shared surprising advice at the Web Creator Summit, suggesting that businesses shouldn’t need to pay for SEO audits to perform well on searches. While Google hopes to make things simpler, the SEO community has voiced concerns that this advice might be unrealistic for most site owners. Here’s what Google’s message means, why it’s … Don’t Hire SEO! Google’s New SEO Advice Stirs Debate
Zulekha Nishad
Google’s Crawl Budget Update: Keep Your Mobile Links Consistent
Google has just updated its guidelines on crawl budgets, and it’s an important one for large websites, especially those that keep separate mobile and desktop versions. If you’re not ensuring the same links are accessible on both versions, you may risk slower page discovery—and in turn, less visibility in search results. Let’s break down what … Google’s Crawl Budget Update: Keep Your Mobile Links Consistent
Zulekha Nishad
How Reddit’s Revenue Growth Impacts Original Content Creators
Reddit has seen a remarkable year of growth, surpassing expectations with profitability and strong performance on the public market. With a 68% rise in revenue, a 56% increase in ad income, and a 40% stock price jump, Reddit is thriving, largely due to increased traffic from Google. However, this growth is tightly linked to Google’s … How Reddit’s Revenue Growth Impacts Original Content Creators
Zulekha Nishad
SearchGPT Launched: The New Era of AI-Powered Search
OpenAI recently launched SearchGPT on October 31, 2024, and it’s already making waves as an exciting alternative to traditional search engines. As an ad-free, AI-powered assistant, SearchGPT is designed to prioritize quality and relevance, addressing users’ call for a cleaner, more efficient search experience. This release comes at a critical time, as many users and … SearchGPT Launched: The New Era of AI-Powered Search
Dileep Thekkethil
Google’s New Search Rules Hit Off-Brand Site Content
Google has made a big change to its search rankings, lowering the visibility of content that doesn’t match a site’s main theme. Major sites like CNN and Forbes are already feeling the impact, with their product review sections losing visibility. Google says it aims to give users more focused and relevant results, but this could … Google’s New Search Rules Hit Off-Brand Site Content
Zulekha Nishad
Mike Hardaker Shares Insights from Google Creator Event
In a recent initiative to address the concerns of content creators, Mike Hardaker, Founder and Publisher of Mountain Weekly News, spent a day at Google’s Mountain View campus along with other creators to discuss the impact of recent algorithm updates on independent publishers. Image Courtesy: https://mike-hardaker.com/ The event titled Google Creator Event aims to provide … Mike Hardaker Shares Insights from Google Creator Event
Dileep Thekkethil
Google Expands AI Overviews in Search Globally
Google’s AI-powered search summaries, known as AI Overviews, are expanding beyond the United States to over 100 countries and now support six languages. This rollout marks a big step in Google’s mission to reshape the search experience for over a billion users each month, making information both accessible and easier to understand. In this rollout, … Google Expands AI Overviews in Search Globally
Zulekha Nishad
How to Use Apple Writing Tools in Google Docs
Many content marketers today prefer using Google Docs over traditional programs like Word or Pages. This shift is mainly because of Google Docs’ flexibility, offering real-time collaboration and easy access across various devices. However, with Apple’s new Intelligence-based Writing Tools, marketers are eager to try out this advanced feature as an alternative to ChatGPT and … How to Use Apple Writing Tools in Google Docs
Dileep Thekkethil
Confirmed: Core Web Vitals Not a Big Ranking Factor
Google’s Page Experience update aims to make websites more user-friendly, focusing on three main things: site speed, interactivity, and visual stability. But don’t worry if you didn’t get all three factors (LCP, CLS, and INP) within the green line — Google experts say that improving these aspects alone won’t cause your site’s search rankings to … Confirmed: Core Web Vitals Not a Big Ranking Factor
Dileep Thekkethil
Google Loses Antitrust Case: UK Couple Wins $2 Billion
Shivaun and Adam Raff’s 15-Year Battle Sparks a Landmark Shift in Big Tech Accountability. In 2006, Shivaun and Adam Raff were two tech innovators with a bold idea: Foundem, a price comparison website that could revolutionize online shopping. They built it from scratch, left stable jobs, and went all in, confident their platform could help … Google Loses Antitrust Case: UK Couple Wins $2 Billion
Zulekha Nishad
Internet Archive Hacked Again: 800,000 Users’ Data at Risk
The Internet Archive, home of the famous Wayback Machine, has been hit by a second major data breach in just two weeks. Over 800,000 support tickets are now potentially exposed, along with sensitive user data. This breach comes after a recent attack that compromised data from 33 million accounts, sending alarm bells ringing for Archive … Internet Archive Hacked Again: 800,000 Users’ Data at Risk
Zulekha Nishad
AI Isn’t Going Away, Says John Mueller
As tech continues to race forward, Google’s John Mueller clarifies that “AI isn’t going away.” So, what does this mean for us in a world buzzing with AI-powered tools? According to Mueller, it’s time to adapt and learn rather than resist or fear this transformation. But his message isn’t all pro-AI hype; he also warns … AI Isn’t Going Away, Says John Mueller
Dileep Thekkethil
Google Sets New Rules for URL Parameters
Google has updated its best practices for URL parameters, introducing a new standard that aims to simplify website crawling and reduce SEO issues. This small tweak may have a big impact on site efficiency and search visibility. Here’s why these changes matter and how websites can get ahead. Google’s URL Overhaul: What’s Changed? In a … Google Sets New Rules for URL Parameters
Zulekha Nishad
Google to Phase Out Sitelinks Search Box in November
Big changes are coming to your Google search results, and you might not even notice them—at first. After a solid ten years, Google has pulled the plug on the Sitelinks Search Box. If you’ve ever searched for something on Google and saw a search box under a website link allowing you to search within that … Google to Phase Out Sitelinks Search Box in November
Zulekha Nishad
How to Get Your Brand Mentioned by AI Tools
In a world where digital trends are constantly shifting, AI-powered tools like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Gemini are reshaping how information is sourced and shared. Brands are keen to appear in the answers generated by these large language models (LLMs), but doing so requires an entirely new playbook. Unlike traditional SEO, where backlinks and keyword optimization … How to Get Your Brand Mentioned by AI Tools
Zulekha Nishad
NotebookLM: Google’s AI Tool for Smarter Note-Taking
Google launched a tool called NotebookLM a year ago, and it’s making waves. This AI-powered assistant is designed to help you understand and learn from your notes. Whether you’re a student, researcher, or someone who deals with a lot of information, NotebookLM will summarize, highlight key points, and answer your questions from within your own … NotebookLM: Google’s AI Tool for Smarter Note-Taking
Zulekha Nishad
Google’s AI in DevTools Enhances Web Development
Web development just got a whole lot easier. Google has launched an AI Assistance panel within Chrome DevTools, and it’s revolutionizing how developers debug, style, and code websites. This AI-powered feature uses Google’s Gemini AI model to offer real-time insights, explanations, and even prototyped fixes, saving developers tons of time. Let’s look into what this … Google’s AI in DevTools Enhances Web Development
Zulekha Nishad
Nick Fox Takes Over as Google’s New Search Chief
Google has announced that Nick Fox will take over as the new head of its Search and Ads divisions, replacing Prabhakar Raghavan. Raghavan, who has led these divisions for several years, will transition into a newly created role as Chief Technologist, working closely with CEO Sundar Pichai. This change in leadership is expected to bring … Nick Fox Takes Over as Google’s New Search Chief
Dileep Thekkethil
YouTube Rolls Out Major Updates Across All Devices
YouTube is launching new features on desktop, mobile, TV, and YouTube Music, based on what users have been asking for. Let’s get straight into what’s new and how it’ll change the way you use YouTube. Key Changes Across All Platforms YouTube’s latest update brings several important changes across desktop, mobile, TV, and YouTube Music. These … YouTube Rolls Out Major Updates Across All Devices
Zulekha Nishad
Master Digital Marketing Strategies With Google Trends
In a recent demonstration, Google experts Daniel Waisberg and Omri Weisman revealed three key strategies to help marketers harness the full potential of Google Trends. These tactics—competitor benchmarking, brand awareness analysis, and product demand forecasting—offer actionable insights to level up both online and offline marketing strategies. Stay Ahead of Competitors: A Google Trends Hack for … Master Digital Marketing Strategies With Google Trends
Zulekha Nishad
Semrush Acquires Search Engine Land: What This Means for the SEO Community
As an SEO professional who has relied on both Semrush and Search Engine Land for years, I’m excited about today’s news: Semrush has acquired Third Door Media, the parent company of Search Engine Land, MarTech, and the SMX event series. This acquisition represents a big step forward for those of us in the digital marketing … Semrush Acquires Search Engine Land: What This Means for the SEO Community
Dileep Thekkethil
Reddit Introduces AI for Smarter Ad Targeting
Reddit is shaking things up in the world of digital advertising with some major updates, and if you’re in marketing, this should definitely be on your radar. The platform, which is home to thousands of communities and millions of conversations, has introduced new keyword-targeting features that promise to help advertisers reach their ideal audiences at … Reddit Introduces AI for Smarter Ad Targeting
Zulekha Nishad
Internet Archive Hit by Major Data Breach
The Internet Archive was hit by a massive data breach that exposed the personal information of 31 million users. As confirmed by security experts and the organization itself, this breach has sent shockwaves through the cybersecurity world, raising concerns about how vulnerable even the most mission-driven nonprofits can be when it comes to protecting sensitive … Internet Archive Hit by Major Data Breach
Zulekha Nishad
Google Search Is Getting Worse, Says Mrwhosetheboss
In a video that has quickly gone viral with over 1.75 million views in just two days, British YouTuber Mrwhosetheboss (Arun Rupesh Maini) has sparked a debate over Google Search’s relevance and usability, pointing to a significant departure from the platform’s original commitment to quality and transparency. His video, “Why Google Search is Falling Apart,” … Google Search Is Getting Worse, Says Mrwhosetheboss
Dileep Thekkethil
Siteimprove Acquires MarketMuse: What Marketers Should Know
MarketMuse, the AI-powered content strategy platform, has officially entered into an agreement to be acquired by Siteimprove, a major player in digital marketing tools. This collaboration has the potential to revolutionize the marketing industry by providing marketers with a comprehensive solution that integrates accessibility, content planning, and SEO into a single, seamless platform. A Strategic … Siteimprove Acquires MarketMuse: What Marketers Should Know
Zulekha Nishad
Google Updates Robots.txt Rules: No More Crawl-Delay Confusion
Google recently made a small but important change to its robots.txt documentation. The update, which added just a few words, has clarified how Google interacts with websites. Specifically, Google stated that certain fields in robots.txt files, like “crawl-delay,” are not supported. If you’ve been using this directive to control how Google crawls your site, this … Google Updates Robots.txt Rules: No More Crawl-Delay Confusion
Zulekha Nishad
Google’s Search Dominance: Is It Really Under Threat?
In recent months, headlines and debates have swirled around the idea that Google, the titan of the search engine world, might be losing its edge in the search advertising market. A Wall Street Journal article published in early October 2024 grabbed attention with its claim that Google could, for the first time, dip below 50% … Google’s Search Dominance: Is It Really Under Threat?
Zulekha Nishad
AI Meets Search: Google Launches Innovative Features to Enhance User Experience
Google has officially launched its cutting-edge AI-organized search results across the United States, marking a significant step in the way users access information online. This transformative feature is designed to elevate user experience by delivering a diverse range of content—from articles and videos to forums—tailored to improve how we find and interact with information. AI-Organized … AI Meets Search: Google Launches Innovative Features to Enhance User Experience
Zulekha Nishad
Google’s Gemini AI Debuts in India with Language Support and Business Tools
Google is making a major move to change how millions of people in India use technology. At its 10th “Google for India” event, the company announced exciting new AI-powered tools designed specifically for Indian users. This could change everyday life in a big way, from how we search for information to how businesses operate. Let’s … Google’s Gemini AI Debuts in India with Language Support and Business Tools
Zulekha Nishad
Google Search Reliability Explained: What Keeps It Running Smoothly?
How does Google manage to keep its search engine running seamlessly 24/7, even during the highest traffic peaks? In a fascinating conversation from the “Search Off the Record” podcast, Google’s Site Reliability Engineering (SRE) team members offer insights into how they maintain this level of reliability and resilience. This episode gives listeners a rare glimpse … Google Search Reliability Explained: What Keeps It Running Smoothly?
Zulekha Nishad
Google’s Warning: JavaScript Hurts Product Search Visibility
With search engine optimization being such a huge part of how e-commerce works today, any update from Google is something businesses and developers can’t afford to ignore. And Google’s latest warning? It’s all about how online merchants use JavaScript to manage their product data. If you’re using JavaScript to generate product details on your website, … Google’s Warning: JavaScript Hurts Product Search Visibility
Zulekha Nishad
Google Chrome Launches $65,000 Development Challenge
Google has launched a thrilling opportunity for developers and web creators—the Google Chrome Built-in Development Challenge. This event encourages participants to reimagine the web, using Chrome’s built-in tools and resources, to create innovative web applications and browser extensions. With $65,000 in prizes and a chance to collaborate with Google’s development team, it’s a golden opportunity … Google Chrome Launches $65,000 Development Challenge
Zulekha Nishad
Forbes Advisor Hit by Google Penalty: SEO Tactics Lead to Traffic Drop
Forbes Advisor, a major player in affiliate marketing, appears to have been hit with a penalty from Google, resulting in a massive drop in its search rankings. Speculation suggests that Forbes Advisor may have violated Google’s site reputation abuse policy by pushing the boundaries with its SEO tactics. Within days of an article highlighting these … Forbes Advisor Hit by Google Penalty: SEO Tactics Lead to Traffic Drop
Zulekha Nishad
Danny Sullivan Reveals How Small Websites Can Still Compete
Google’s constant updates can make it challenging for website owners and SEO professionals to keep up. In a recent interview with Aleyda Solis, Danny Sullivan, Google’s Search Liaison, shared valuable insights on the future of search, how small websites can compete, and what’s coming next. Covering everything from the impact of AI to the growing … Danny Sullivan Reveals How Small Websites Can Still Compete
Zulekha Nishad
Google Trends for SEO: A Data-Driven Approach to Smarter SEO Strategies
Google Trends is emerging as a powerful tool that provides a clear view of what people are searching for, helping businesses and marketers create content that aligns with current interests. In a recent tutorial, Google experts shared how to use Google Trends effectively for keyword research, strategic content planning, and optimizing video performance on YouTube. … Google Trends for SEO: A Data-Driven Approach to Smarter SEO Strategies
Zulekha Nishad
Ahrefs’ AI Content Helper: Transform Content Optimization with AI Insights
For years, content creators have wrestled with optimization tools that prioritize algorithmic formulas over genuine human engagement. These tools often lead to keyword-stuffed, robotic articles, aimed at ranking high in search engine results rather than delivering value to readers. But what if there was a way to satisfy both? Ahrefs has introduced a solution that … Ahrefs’ AI Content Helper: Transform Content Optimization with AI Insights
Zulekha Nishad
John Mueller: How to Optimize Alt Text for Better SEO
In a recent Reddit discussion, Google’s John Mueller addressed the role of alt text in SEO, emphasizing its ongoing importance and cautioning against using AI to generate it automatically. Despite advances in computer vision and image recognition technology, alt text remains crucial in optimizing images for search engines and ensuring web accessibility. Alt Text: A … John Mueller: How to Optimize Alt Text for Better SEO
Zulekha Nishad
Google Criticized for Favoring Big Brands Over Quality Content
Is Google’s algorithm playing fair with smaller websites, or have the big brands hijacked search results? Cyrus SEO thinks it’s time for a change. For years, Google has been the go-to tool for finding answers online. Whether it’s searching for the best noise-canceling headphones or figuring out how to fix a leaky faucet, we trust … Google Criticized for Favoring Big Brands Over Quality Content
Zulekha Nishad
Google’s New Doodle Game Celebrates Popcorn with a Global Interactive Challenge
Google’s latest interactive Doodle is making waves across the web as it celebrates one of the world’s most beloved snacks—popcorn. The “Celebrating Popcorn Doodle” marks a record-breaking moment by allowing the largest number of players to compete in a single match ever for a Google Doodle. The goal? Avoid getting popped by navigating through three … Google’s New Doodle Game Celebrates Popcorn with a Global Interactive Challenge
Dileep Thekkethil
Google Cached Pages Gone: How to Check Archived Pages Now
In a move that has stirred conversations among SEOs, researchers, and webmasters alike, Google has completely discontinued its Google cache search operator. Introduced in 2001, this feature allowed users to view cached pages of websites directly through search results. The Google cached pages option was a valuable tool for those seeking to access stored website … Google Cached Pages Gone: How to Check Archived Pages Now
Dileep Thekkethil
HubSpot’s New AI Tool “Breeze” Simplifies Marketing Automation
HubSpot has taken a big step into the world of artificial intelligence with the launch of its latest innovation—Breeze. Announced at HubSpot’s annual Inbound marketing conference, Breeze promises to bring a new level of efficiency and automation to everyday tasks. What Exactly Is Breeze, and Why Should You Care? Breeze is an AI-powered assistant that … HubSpot’s New AI Tool “Breeze” Simplifies Marketing Automation
Zulekha Nishad
Is Your SEO Agency Doing a Good Job?
You’ve hired an SEO agency, signed the contract, and now you’re waiting for results. Weeks, maybe even months, go by and you’re starting to wonder: Is my SEO team doing its job? This question leaves many business owners scratching their heads. The truth is, SEO isn’t a quick fix, but how do you know if … Is Your SEO Agency Doing a Good Job?
Zulekha Nishad
Google’s €1.49 Billion EU Fine Overturned: A Major Win for Big Tech
Google has just emerged victorious in a major legal battle, as the European Union’s General Court annulled a €1.49 billion ($1.66 billion) fine imposed in 2019. The fine was initially issued after accusations that Google engaged in anti-competitive practices with its advertising platform. However, the court ruled that the European Commission, the EU’s regulatory body, … Google’s €1.49 Billion EU Fine Overturned: A Major Win for Big Tech
Zulekha Nishad
Google Will Soon Flag AI-Generated Images: Here’s Why It Matters
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing the world around us, from creating art to writing text and even generating images. While it’s an exciting time for technology, not all of these changes are for the better. With AI-generated images flooding the internet, it’s becoming harder to tell what’s real and what’s fake. In response, Google is … Google Will Soon Flag AI-Generated Images: Here’s Why It Matters
Zulekha Nishad
How to Fix Unusual Traffic from Your Computer Network Error
Have you ever been searching on Google continuously for a few minutes, and suddenly, a strange message pops up? It might read something like this: “Our systems have detected unusual traffic from your computer network. This page checks to see if it’s really you sending the requests and not a robot.” Sounds like something from … How to Fix Unusual Traffic from Your Computer Network Error
Zulekha Nishad
How to Search for Words on a Page – 7 Effective Ways
We’ve all been there—you’re reading a lengthy article or exploring a website, and you need to find specific information without scrolling endlessly. The good news is that modern browsers have several easy-to-use features to help you quickly locate the exact word or phrase you’re searching for. In my experience working on various types of content, … How to Search for Words on a Page – 7 Effective Ways
Dileep Thekkethil
Using Gemini AI for SEO? Google’s Poll Raises Eyebrows in the SEO World
Recently, Google posted a poll on social media asking users how they would use their new AI model, Gemini, for SEO. The poll asked questions about using AI for keyword optimization, content creation, and meta titles, among other tasks. At first glance, it seemed like Google was trying to push AI as a must-have for … Using Gemini AI for SEO? Google’s Poll Raises Eyebrows in the SEO World
Zulekha Nishad
CTR Manipulation for SEO is Tempting but Not Worth the Risk in 2025
When I first heard about CTR manipulation in 2016 from a friend of mine who worked for a publishing firm which used this strategy, it sounded like an easy shortcut—especially when you’re hustling to rank higher in Google’s search results. All you have to do is artificially boost your click-through rate, and suddenly, you’ve got … CTR Manipulation for SEO is Tempting but Not Worth the Risk in 2025
Dileep Thekkethil
Smaller ‘More’ Link, Bigger Impact? Google Revamps AI Search Feature
Google is rolling out a subtle yet impactful change to its AI Overview feature, aiming to refine users’ interactions with AI-generated search results. Instead of the large, obvious “Show More” button, users will now see a smaller, less noticeable “More” link at the bottom of the snippet. This might seem like a minor tweak, but … Smaller ‘More’ Link, Bigger Impact? Google Revamps AI Search Feature
Zulekha Nishad
How to Exclude a Word From Google Search in 2024
Searching for information online has become an essential part of everyday life, whether for personal, academic, or professional purposes. As search engines have grown more advanced, the need for search precision has increased. Many users struggle to filter out irrelevant content, leading to frustration and time wasted. Fortunately, search engines and databases offer ways to … How to Exclude a Word From Google Search in 2024
Zulekha Nishad
Tips to Get Started with Gems in Gemini
The world of AI is evolving rapidly, and one of the newest tools making waves is Gems, a feature in Google’s Gemini platform. Gems are personalized AI assistants that can be tailored to meet your specific needs, offering customized advice and solutions at the touch of a button. Recently launched for Gemini Advanced, Business, and … Tips to Get Started with Gems in Gemini
Zulekha Nishad
Valid HTML Is Not a Direct Google Ranking Factor – Confirms John Mueller
In a recent discussion, John Mueller, Google’s Senior Search Analyst, confirmed that valid HTML is not a direct ranking factor for Google Search. While it is important for maintaining a clean and functional website, it does not directly influence a website’s position in search results. This clarification came following the release of a report by … Valid HTML Is Not a Direct Google Ranking Factor – Confirms John Mueller
Dileep Thekkethil
Why Your Search Engine Keeps Switching to Yahoo
If your default search engine keeps switching to Yahoo, even though you prefer Google or Bing, it could be more than just a minor annoyance—it may indicate issues like malware, malicious extensions, or browser misconfigurations. Here, we’ll explain why this happens and how it impacts your browsing experience. We’ll also provide easy, step-by-step solutions to … Why Your Search Engine Keeps Switching to Yahoo
Zulekha Nishad
Top 10 Most Popular Google Doodle Games 2024
Google Doodle Games have evolved from simple interactive elements into engaging mini-games celebrating cultural events, anniversaries, and achievements. They capture the interest of millions worldwide, offering fun, education, and a touch of nostalgia. Below, we explore the Top 10 Most Played Google Doodle Games in detail. 1. Google Snake Game The Google Snake Game takes … Top 10 Most Popular Google Doodle Games 2024
Dileep Thekkethil
Chrome Drops FID, Prioritizes INP for User Interaction Metrics
Google Chrome has officially ended support for its First Input Delay (FID) metric, marking a huge step toward improving web performance measurement. Developers are now urged to fully transition to Interaction to Next Paint (INP), a more comprehensive metric that evaluates a user’s interaction with a webpage from input to visual feedback. Google’s New Focus … Chrome Drops FID, Prioritizes INP for User Interaction Metrics
Zulekha Nishad
Pages Indexed, Though Being Blocked by robots.txt: Insights from John Mueller
Despite being blocked from crawling by robots.txt, Google continues to index pages, leaving many webmasters puzzled and frustrated. Recent insights from John Mueller, Google’s Senior Webmaster Trends Analyst, reveal why these blocked pages still appear in search results and what site owners can do to manage the issue. Why Blocked Pages Aren’t Staying Hidden Rick … Pages Indexed, Though Being Blocked by robots.txt: Insights from John Mueller
Zulekha Nishad
Danny Sullivan Explains August 2024 Core Update Impact
In an interview with Barry Schwartz, Google’s Search Liaison, Danny Sullivan, shared interesting insights into the motivations behind the August 2024 core update and its impact, especially on smaller, independent publishers struggling since last year’s updates. Search Rankings Shake-Up Google’s latest core update in August 2024 has caused significant changes across the web, affecting search … Danny Sullivan Explains August 2024 Core Update Impact
Zulekha Nishad
Stop Worrying About Spam Scores: Google Says Focus on Content
Google’s Search Advocate, John Mueller, recently addressed widespread concerns about spam scores, a metric many website owners worry about. His message is clear: spam scores, assigned by third-party tools, have no bearing on Google rankings. Instead, Mueller emphasized that the real focus should be creating exceptional content. What Are Spam Scores? Third-party SEO tools, such … Stop Worrying About Spam Scores: Google Says Focus on Content
Zulekha Nishad
YouTube Reveals New SEO Priorities
YouTube has finally answered some of the most pressing questions creators have been asking about how its algorithm works. Recent insights from YouTube Liaison Rene Ritchie, as well as a video featuring Dave Whiskus and Todd Beaupre, reveal that audience engagement, not traditional SEO tricks, is the key to success on the platform. This new … YouTube Reveals New SEO Priorities
Zulekha Nishad
Top SEO Experts to Follow for Cutting-Edge Insights
It’s hard to believe that 15 years have flown by since I began my journey in Search Engine Optimization. Back then, the world of SEO was simpler, yet daunting in its own way. The only site I leaned on for guidance was Moz, and the two names I held in high regard were Matt Cutts … Top SEO Experts to Follow for Cutting-Edge Insights
Dileep Thekkethil
Google Says Quality Beats Quantity for Content and Links
Google has once again disrupted the SEO industry, this time debunking the long-held belief that word count and link quantity play a direct role in search rankings. John Mueller, Google’s Search Advocate, recently clarified that the number of words or links in a blog post doesn’t influence how content is ranked. This bold statement challenges … Google Says Quality Beats Quantity for Content and Links
Zulekha Nishad
AI Content 2024: How to Stay Ahead of AI Detection Tools
Artificial intelligence has transformed content creation by enabling the generation of articles, blogs, and marketing materials in a fraction of the time it used to take. However, although AI can produce text rapidly, it often lacks the natural tone and authenticity that readers expect. As AI-generated content becomes more common, the ability to make it … AI Content 2024: How to Stay Ahead of AI Detection Tools
Zulekha Nishad
AVIF vs. WebP: Which Image Format Should SEOs Recommend for 2024?
With Google’s latest announcement that AVIF is now a supported file type in Google Search, the SEO community is buzzing about which image format—AVIF or WebP—should be the go-to recommendation for websites looking to optimize their image SEO. Both formats have Google’s backing and offer significant advantages over older formats like JPEG and PNG. However, there are key differences that SEOs need … AVIF vs. WebP: Which Image Format Should SEOs Recommend for 2024?
Dileep Thekkethil
Gemini Rolls Out Custom Gems and Imagen 3
Gemini has released two major updates that aim to enhance user experience and productivity. These updates include the introduction of Custom Gems, personalized AI assistants that can be tailored to specific tasks, and the launch of Imagen 3, an advanced image generation model that creates high-quality visuals from simple text prompts. These new features are … Gemini Rolls Out Custom Gems and Imagen 3
Zulekha Nishad
Yelp Files Antitrust Lawsuit Against Google
Yelp has filed an antitrust lawsuit against Google in a federal court in San Francisco. This legal action is the latest in a series of challenges against the tech giant, accusing Google of monopolistic practices that have stifled competition, harmed consumers, and degraded the quality of search results. Jeremy Stoppelman, Yelp’s co-founder and CEO, expressed … Yelp Files Antitrust Lawsuit Against Google
Zulekha Nishad
Google’s August 2024 Update Boosts Reddit
Reddit has just scored a massive victory in search rankings. Thanks to Google’s August 2024 core update, the platform has skyrocketed to the third spot in Google’s U.S. search results, surpassing major players like YouTube and Facebook. Reddit’s visibility in search results has surged dramatically, positioning it just behind online behemoths Wikipedia and Amazon. While … Google’s August 2024 Update Boosts Reddit
Zulekha Nishad
John Mueller Reiterates the Importance of Title Tags in Search Rankings
Google’s John Mueller has reiterated a long-standing belief about the importance of title tags in search rankings. For years, title tags have been regarded as one of the most critical elements in determining a website’s position in search results. However, Mueller’s recent comments suggest that their impact may not be as significant as many SEO professionals … John Mueller Reiterates the Importance of Title Tags in Search Rankings
Zulekha Nishad
Google Search Not Working? Here’s How to Fix It
Are you trying to look up something on Google but find yourself stuck with a spinning wheel and rising frustration? Obviously, you may be thinking, why isn’t Google working? We’ve all been there. It can be incredibly disruptive when Google Search fails to load, leaving us cut off from the information we need. But fear … Google Search Not Working? Here’s How to Fix It
Dileep Thekkethil
Google’s Video SEO Update: What Marketers Need to Know
Google has revamped its Video SEO guidelines with a major overhaul that aims to offer clearer rules for optimizing video content. This update addresses critical aspects such as video indexing, technical requirements, and the introduction of dedicated watch pages. The goal is to help businesses and content creators enhance their search rankings by adhering to … Google’s Video SEO Update: What Marketers Need to Know
Zulekha Nishad
Nofollow and Noindex Tags Are Not Indicators of Content Quality
During a recent Google SEO office hours session, Google’s search team addressed a common misconception within the SEO community. Many believed that using “nofollow” tags and “noindex” directives suggested low-quality content for the search engine. This clarification aims to change how website owners and SEO professionals use these tags, emphasizing their true purpose in managing … Nofollow and Noindex Tags Are Not Indicators of Content Quality
Dileep Thekkethil
15 Key Insights from Google SEO Office Hours – August 2024
Google’s SEO office-hours have always been a goldmine of information for anyone looking to improve their understanding of search engine optimization. In the August 2024 session, John Mueller and Martin Splitt shared valuable tips and answered some interesting queries that could shape how you approach SEO for your website. Here are 15 key insights from … 15 Key Insights from Google SEO Office Hours – August 2024
Dileep Thekkethil
Condé Nast and OpenAI Strike Major Content Deal
Condé Nast, a media giant known for its iconic publications like The New Yorker, Vogue, and Vanity Fair, has entered into a multi-year partnership with OpenAI, the leading force behind AI advancements such as ChatGPT. This collaboration is set to redefine how media content is distributed and monetized in the digital age, bringing together two … Condé Nast and OpenAI Strike Major Content Deal
Zulekha Nishad
10 Wayback Machine Alternatives to Use When Internet Archives is Down
The internet is constantly evolving, with websites frequently updating their content or disappearing altogether. If you’ve ever needed to dig up an old version of a website, track down a deleted page, or explore outdated web designs, you’ve probably turned to the Wayback Machine. As the most recognized website that archives nearly everything, it’s commonly … 10 Wayback Machine Alternatives to Use When Internet Archives is Down
Dileep Thekkethil
Google’s Gemini to Launch “Deep Research” Feature
Google is enhancing its AI assistant, Gemini, with a powerful new feature called “Deep Research.” This tool will enable users to easily compile and synthesize data from various online sources, transforming how we approach research and information gathering. A Leap Forward in Information Retrieval The announcement came from Google’s recent ‘Made By Google’ event, showcasing … Google’s Gemini to Launch “Deep Research” Feature
Zulekha Nishad
Google August 2024 Core Update: Boosting Genuine Sites with Useful Content
Google has just started rolling out its August 2024 core update, causing a stir among website owners, especially small and independent publishers. This update, which will take about a month to fully deploy, is designed to boost smaller websites by highlighting content that’s genuinely useful to users. Amid the ongoing rollout, Google has acknowledged an … Google August 2024 Core Update: Boosting Genuine Sites with Useful Content
Zulekha Nishad
The Ups and Downs of Google’s AI Overviews: What It Means for SEO
July 2024 was a rollercoaster for Google’s AI-generated search overviews, a feature that has become both exciting and frustrating for many in the digital world. While initially gaining a stronger foothold in Google’s search results, AI overviews quickly receded, leaving SEOs, content creators, and businesses to navigate the unpredictable terrain of digital visibility. The July … The Ups and Downs of Google’s AI Overviews: What It Means for SEO
Zulekha Nishad
John Mueller: Most Sites See Accurate Performance Data in Search Console
Recently, Google introduced a new “Recommendations” feature in Search Console, sparking discussions about the accuracy of performance data. An image associated with the announcement suggested that Google Search Console might only display 35% of a website’s performance data, causing concern among site owners. However, Google’s John Mueller has since clarified that this recommendation primarily applies … John Mueller: Most Sites See Accurate Performance Data in Search Console
Dileep Thekkethil
Google Boosts Niche Forum Visibility Beyond Reddit & Quora
In the fall of 2023, Google quietly released an update called ‘Hidden Gems,’ which has significantly increased the search visibility of many online forums, not just big names like Reddit and Quora. This update, designed to highlight content from personal or expert perspectives, has been a game-changer for user-generated content (UGC) forums, driving substantial growth … Google Boosts Niche Forum Visibility Beyond Reddit & Quora
Zulekha Nishad
Understanding mTLS Authentication: Insights from Gary Illyes
Recently, Gary Illyes, the Analyst at Google, shared some valuable insights on LinkedIn about Mutual TLS (mTLS) and how it plays a crucial role in enhancing security in digital communications. His post sheds light on why mTLS is becoming increasingly important in scenarios where both the client and server need to authenticate each other, going … Understanding mTLS Authentication: Insights from Gary Illyes
Dileep Thekkethil
Remembering Susan Wojcicki: Visionary Behind YouTube & Google
The tech industry bid farewell to one of its most influential leaders on August 9, 2024, with the passing of Susan Wojcicki at the age of 56, after a two-year battle with non-small-cell lung cancer. As a key figure in the development of Google and the driving force behind YouTube’s meteoric rise, Wojcicki’s vision and … Remembering Susan Wojcicki: Visionary Behind YouTube & Google
Zulekha Nishad
Shift in Content Consumption: A Wake-Up Call for Creators
As a content creator, especially if you’re focused on informational content like blogs and how-to guides, you’ve probably noticed the landscape shifting beneath your feet. There was a time when lengthy introductions were the norm, with the belief that keeping readers waiting was part of the game. We crafted content that kept Googlebot interested, but … Shift in Content Consumption: A Wake-Up Call for Creators
Dileep Thekkethil
Google Reveals It Doesn’t Track the Cost of Crawling the Web
Google recently provided a rare glimpse into its internal processes, sparking a lively discussion among web developers and SEO professionals. During a LinkedIn exchange initiated by Majid Shah, SEO Manager at Vertu Motors, Martin Splitt, a Developer Advocate at Google, revealed that the company doesn’t track the costs associated with crawling, rendering, indexing, or serving … Google Reveals It Doesn’t Track the Cost of Crawling the Web
Zulekha Nishad
How URL Parameters Are Affecting Google’s Crawling Efficiency
During the 79th episode of Google’s Search Off the Record podcast, Gary Illyes revealed a technical issue that has profoundly affected how Google indexes websites. Rather than discussing the latest SEO trends or a major algorithm update, Illyes focused on a less obvious but significant challenge – URL parameters. These small bits of text, often … How URL Parameters Are Affecting Google’s Crawling Efficiency
Zulekha Nishad
Googlebot Link Crawler: Gary Illyes Explains How It Works
Imagine you’ve been operating under a belief for years: Googlebot, the sophisticated crawler at the heart of the world’s most powerful search engine, navigates websites just like a visitor would—clicking through links and moving from one page to another in real-time. This belief has shaped my SEO strategies, influencing how I design a website’s architecture, … Googlebot Link Crawler: Gary Illyes Explains How It Works
Dileep Thekkethil
92% SEOs Believe Backlinks Can Improve Rankings: Survey
Editorial.Link surveyed 113 industry experts from Europe, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Participants, including in-house experts and outsourced professionals, shared their thoughts on link-building practices. The survey revealed that many SEOs believe competitors use paid backlinks to improve rankings, highlighting the importance of high-quality backlinks in achieving better search visibility. Google’s Guidelines on … 92% SEOs Believe Backlinks Can Improve Rankings: Survey
Dileep Thekkethil
New SEO Scam: Google Warns Small Businesses
Scammers have devised a new tactic: preying on the SEO ambitions of small businesses by impersonating Google employees and offering search ranking fixes for a fee. This fraudulent scheme promises quick results but leaves businesses lighter in the wallet without changing their search rankings. The Deceptive Promise The desire for higher rankings has made small … New SEO Scam: Google Warns Small Businesses
Dileep Thekkethil
Federal Court Declares Google a Monopoly
On Monday, August 5th, Judge Amit Mehta declared Google a monopolist in a 286-page filing. The judgment concludes that Google violated Section 2 of the Sherman Act by maintaining and abusing its monopoly in the markets for general search services and general search text ads. The ruling marks a decisive moment in the ongoing antitrust … Federal Court Declares Google a Monopoly
Zulekha Nishad
Trump’s Antitrust Threat: Google Faces Shutdown Warning
Former President Donald Trump recently stirred controversy by suggesting that Google could face a shutdown due to alleged antitrust violations. His remarks, made during a Fox News interview with Maria Bartiromo, were triggered by his frustration over not receiving a call from Google following an assassination attempt on his life. The Incident That Sparked the … Trump’s Antitrust Threat: Google Faces Shutdown Warning
Zulekha Nishad
Low Quality Search Results Threatens Google’s Integrity
Recent incidents have spotlighted a serious flaw in Google’s search algorithm: spam sites and low-quality results ranking prominently for high-visibility keywords. This issue, brought to public attention by top SEOs in multiple social media platforms, showed spam sites ranking multiple times, even appearing in the Knowledge Panel. With Google planning a major update in the … Low Quality Search Results Threatens Google’s Integrity
Dileep Thekkethil
Google Rolls Out Search Console Recommendations
In a move set to aid website optimization efforts, Google has launched a new feature in Google Search Console: Search Console recommendations. This new feature offers website owners tailored website optimization opportunities and actionable suggestions to boost their presence on Google Search. Unpacking Search Console Recommendations This new feature taps into a wealth of data … Google Rolls Out Search Console Recommendations
Dileep Thekkethil
Major Websites Block OpenAI’s GPTBot Amid Privacy Concerns
A wave of major websites, including prominent names like The New York Times, Amazon, and Wired, have decided to block OpenAI’s GPTBot, citing privacy concerns and the potential misuse of their content, says a report published by Originality.ai. This move follows OpenAI’s recent launch of SearchGPT and OAI-SearchBot in July 2024, sparking widespread debate about … Major Websites Block OpenAI’s GPTBot Amid Privacy Concerns
Zulekha Nishad
Google’s JavaScript Indexing: What Developers Need to Know
Recent research has revealed Google’s impressive ability to handle JavaScript throughout the indexing process. This study, conducted by Vercel and MERJ, clears up many misconceptions and clarifies how Google efficiently indexes JavaScript-heavy websites. Here’s what you need to know about these findings and their implications. What the Experts Found The collaborative effort between Vercel and … Google’s JavaScript Indexing: What Developers Need to Know
Zulekha Nishad
Reddit CEO Demands Microsoft Pay for Content Access
Reddit CEO Steve Huffman has demanded that tech giants like Microsoft pay to access and use Reddit’s content, establishing a landmark precedent in the ongoing debate over data usage by AI and search engines. Reddit Blocks Microsoft and Others Reddit has updated its robots.txt file to block search engines and AI models, including Microsoft’s Bing, … Reddit CEO Demands Microsoft Pay for Content Access
Zulekha Nishad
Bruce Clay Inc. Introduces PreWriter: An AI Tool to Boost Content Creation Efficiency
Bruce Clay Inc. has introduced a new AI content tool as part of the agency’s toolkit. PreWriter is designed to assist writers and content teams by streamlining the content creation process. PreWriter.ai is touted as an advanced AI tool that aims to revolutionize how content is created, scaled, and optimized. As the demand for high-quality … Bruce Clay Inc. Introduces PreWriter: An AI Tool to Boost Content Creation Efficiency
Dileep Thekkethil
TJ Robertson’s First Encounter with SearchGPT: An SEO’s Perspective
TJ Robertson, the Director of Search Engine Optimization at Envision Marketing, recently shared his first impressions of OpenAI’s new SearchGPT. This tool is designed to compete with Google and improve how small businesses are discovered online. Robertson’s insights reveal how SearchGPT (now in closed beta testing) could revolutionize SEO. A New Player in Local Search During his test, … TJ Robertson’s First Encounter with SearchGPT: An SEO’s Perspective
Zulekha Nishad
Get Ahead with Google Trends: Insights from the Latest Episode
In the first episode of Google Trends Tutorial series, Daniel Waisberg, a Search Advocate at Google, takes viewers on an enlightening journey into the world of search data. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding how Google Trends works, how it collects and processes data, and how you can leverage this powerful … Get Ahead with Google Trends: Insights from the Latest Episode
Zulekha Nishad
YouTube Shorts Advertising: Create Ads That Blend In
Short-form video is revolutionizing advertising, with YouTube Shorts leading the charge at over 70 billion daily views globally. Brands are discovering that the key to effective advertising on this platform lies in creating ads that seamlessly blend in with user-generated content. By adopting a “Shorts-first” approach, advertisers can engage viewers who quickly swipe away anything … YouTube Shorts Advertising: Create Ads That Blend In
Zulekha Nishad
OpenAI Rolls Out ChatGPT’s Advanced Voice Mode
OpenAI has started the gradual rollout of ChatGPT’s Advanced Voice Mode, an innovative feature promising hyperrealistic audio responses. This move marks a major leap in AI-human interaction, setting the stage for a new era in conversational AI. This alpha version will initially be available to a small group of ChatGPT Plus users, and it is … OpenAI Rolls Out ChatGPT’s Advanced Voice Mode
Zulekha Nishad
Google Mixes Ads into Organic Search: What You Need to Know
Google has been blending ads into its organic search results for several months now, making it harder for users to distinguish between paid and free content. This tactic, highlighted through data from Semrush and shared by Mordy Oberstein, Head of SEO Brand at Wix, represents a major change in how Google presents its search results. … Google Mixes Ads into Organic Search: What You Need to Know
Zulekha Nishad
Google’s AI Overviews: Lawmakers Demand Transparency
Representative Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) and several other lawmakers are pressing Google CEO Sundar Pichai for answers regarding the company’s new AI Overviews feature. This tool, which generates quick summaries of information for users, has been criticized for providing misleading and false information. The lawmakers are concerned about the reliability of Google’s search engine, which is … Google’s AI Overviews: Lawmakers Demand Transparency
Dileep Thekkethil
AI Overview and SEO: Essential Findings for HR SaaS Marketers
In an analysis conducted by Flow Agency in collaboration with Ziptie, nearly 5,000 keywords related to HR and workforce management within the SaaS industry were scrutinized to understand the impact of AI Overview on search results. This thorough study aimed to provide strategic recommendations for marketers to optimize their content for better visibility and engagement. … AI Overview and SEO: Essential Findings for HR SaaS Marketers
Zulekha Nishad
Don’t Switch M-Dot URLs to Mobile Canonicals, Says John Mueller
In a recent LinkedIn post, John Mueller, Senior Search Analyst and Search Relations team lead at Google, advised against switching canonical URLs for sites with m-dot mobile URLs. The recommendation comes amidst ongoing discussions about mobile-first indexing and the best practices for optimizing websites for desktop and mobile users. Mueller’s key message is clear: “No, … Don’t Switch M-Dot URLs to Mobile Canonicals, Says John Mueller
Dileep Thekkethil
Google’s Take on Hreflang for International Sites
In a recent episode of Google’s “Search Off the Record” podcast, members of the Google Search Relations team delved into the complexities and nuances of implementing Hreflang tags for multilingual websites. Martin, Lizzi, and Gary shared their expertise on this vital SEO topic, offering practical insights and predictions for the future of international SEO. This … Google’s Take on Hreflang for International Sites
Zulekha Nishad
SearchGPT: The Next Big Thing in AI Search Technology
OpenAI has introduced a new search tool called SearchGPT. This innovative prototype is designed to change how we search for information online by combining artificial intelligence (AI) with traditional web search. A New Way to Search OpenAI’s SearchGPT represents a big step forward in search technology. It uses powerful AI models to provide quick and … SearchGPT: The Next Big Thing in AI Search Technology
Zulekha Nishad
ACSI Survey: AI Drives Increase in Search Engine User Satisfaction
In a study conducted by the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI), the impact of AI on search engines and social media platforms has been quantified, revealing unprecedented levels of user satisfaction. This independent research highlights a significant shift in user preferences, with AI technology driving a remarkable enhancement in the digital experience. AI-Driven Satisfaction: Google’s … ACSI Survey: AI Drives Increase in Search Engine User Satisfaction
Dileep Thekkethil
Why Reddit Blocked Bing Crawlers
Reddit has recently updated its robots.txt file, effectively blocking Microsoft’s Bing search engine and several other search engines from crawling its site. This development, confirmed by Microsoft, marks a significant shift in how Reddit manages its content and relationships with search engines and AI tools. An Unexpected Turn of Events On July 1, 2024, Reddit … Why Reddit Blocked Bing Crawlers
Dileep Thekkethil
54% of SEOs Report Positive Results from Google Updates
In the world of search engine optimization, changes to Google’s algorithms can often provoke a mix of anticipation and anxiety. A recent poll by renowned SEO Consultant, Author & Speaker – Aleyda Solis revealed an optimistic trend, with 54% of respondents reporting that their websites have benefited from Google’s updates over the past few years. … 54% of SEOs Report Positive Results from Google Updates
Dileep Thekkethil
Optimize Your Site’s Internal Links: Expert Advice from Martin Splitt
On the latest episode of #SEO Made Easy, Google’s Martin Splitt delivers expert advice on creating impactful internal links that benefit both users and search engines. Splitt’s insights are timely and essential for anyone looking to optimize their website’s internal structure. The Importance of Internal Links Internal links are essential for helping users find their … Optimize Your Site’s Internal Links: Expert Advice from Martin Splitt
Zulekha Nishad
Google Introduces AI-Generated Video Descriptions
Google is once again at the forefront of technological innovation, introducing AI-generated video descriptions to its search results. This cutting-edge feature promises to revolutionize how users interact with video content on the platform. AI-Driven Innovation in Search Google has started experimenting with a groundbreaking feature that uses artificial intelligence to create video descriptions directly within … Google Introduces AI-Generated Video Descriptions
Zulekha Nishad
Avoid SEO Scams – Evaluate Your SEO Company’s Performance
Hiring an SEO company has become a strategic move for businesses aiming to enhance their online presence. However, ensuring these companies deliver on their promises remains a significant challenge Knowing how to evaluate the effectiveness of your SEO company can save you from wasted resources and help you achieve your business goals. This post will … Avoid SEO Scams – Evaluate Your SEO Company’s Performance
Dileep Thekkethil
Third-Party Cookies in Chrome Here to Stay, Confirms Google
Google has put an end to the fear mongering about an imminent phase out of third-party cookies from its Chrome browser. This unexpected decision follows years of speculation and preparation for a cookie-less future. Instead of eliminating cookie tracking, Google now aims to introduce new privacy controls that will allow users to make informed choices … Third-Party Cookies in Chrome Here to Stay, Confirms Google
Zulekha Nishad
Billions of goo.gl Shortener Links Will Stop Working Soon
Google has announced that its once-popular URL shortener service, Goo.gl, will completely cease operations by August 25, 2025. This development marks the end of an era for billions of shortened URLs that facilitated easy sharing and tracking since 2009. Goo.gl’s Final Chapter: The Countdown Begins The Goo.gl URL shortener was launched in September 2009 … Billions of goo.gl Shortener Links Will Stop Working Soon
Ananyaa Venkat
Google Clarifies SEO Guidelines for Heading Tags
An important update came out for the digital marketing and SEO industry, with Google’s Gary Illyes clarifying the importance of header tags (H1, H2, etc.) in search engine optimization. This key information, shared during the July 2024 SEO Office Hours podcast, is set to change how we use headings on web pages, influencing SEO practices … Google Clarifies SEO Guidelines for Heading Tags
Dileep Thekkethil
Google Launches Comprehensive Google Trends Tutorial Series
Google Search Advocate Daniel Waisberg, along with Omri Weisman and Hadas Jacobi, has announced a new tutorial series dedicated to Google Trends, a powerful tool that reveals the world’s search habits, cultural fascinations, and consumer behaviors. This initiative aims to transform how businesses and individuals utilize online search data. Decoding the Digital Pulse Google Trends … Google Launches Comprehensive Google Trends Tutorial Series
Zulekha Nishad
Google’s July 2024 SEO Office-Hours: Key Insights
Google’s July 2024 SEO Office Hours podcast, led by the Google Search Relations team, has once again provided a treasure trove of insights for webmasters and SEO enthusiasts. The discussion ranged from handling CMS migrations to the intricacies of structured data, and each answer provided practical guidance directly from the experts. SEO Insights You Can’t … Google’s July 2024 SEO Office-Hours: Key Insights
Zulekha Nishad
Google Ends Experimental Search Notes Feature
After eight months of testing, Google has formally declared the end of its experimental Search Notes feature. The goal of the project was to improve search results by integrating user-generated notes and observations. This decision concludes an experiment that drew curiosity and criticism among users and tech observers, following prolonged speculation and delays. The End … Google Ends Experimental Search Notes Feature
Zulekha Nishad
Google to Roll Out Major Core Update in Coming Weeks
Google is set to release its next core update within the next few weeks, sparking anticipation among webmasters, SEO professionals, and digital marketers. The precise launch date remains uncertain, as the update follows Google’s rigorous cycle of changes, tests, and evaluations before being integrated into the search engine’s ranking algorithm. Anticipation Builds as Google Prepares … Google to Roll Out Major Core Update in Coming Weeks
Dileep Thekkethil
Semrush Expands Capabilities with Ryte Integration
Semrush Holdings Inc. has acquired Ryte, an award-winning Website User Experience (WUX) platform. Both Semrush and Ryte are well-known and widely used tools among digital marketers for their features and innovative solutions. This move combines the strengths and expertise of both companies, promising more powerful solutions for their customers and marking a significant step forward … Semrush Expands Capabilities with Ryte Integration
Zulekha Nishad
Can You Block Content in Google Discover? SEO Experts Debate the Challenges
In a recent social media exchange, SEO experts and Google’s Search Liaison discussed the complexities and challenges of blocking content from Google News and Google Discover. The conversation shed light on the limitations and possible outcomes of current guidelines, raising pressing concerns for publishers and SEO professionals alike. The Twitter Exchange That Sparked the Debate … Can You Block Content in Google Discover? SEO Experts Debate the Challenges
Zulekha Nishad
Disavow Tool in SEO – Why Industry Experts and Majestic Are Reconsidering It
With Google undergoing a sea change over the last decade, the relevance of Google’s disavow tool has become a focus of SEO discussions. Introduced in October 2012, a few months after the penguin update, the disavow tool has been part of the search console for over 12 years. However, recent discussions by industry experts have … Disavow Tool in SEO – Why Industry Experts and Majestic Are Reconsidering It
Dileep Thekkethil
Google Search Console Adds Shipping and Return Policy Management
Google Search Console has introduced a revolutionary feature that allows online merchants to set and manage their shipping and return policies directly. This means online retailers can now configure these critical details directly within the platform, superseding existing methods such as product-level merchant listing markup and structured data. This update promises to simplify the way … Google Search Console Adds Shipping and Return Policy Management
Zulekha Nishad
Google’s Zoe Clifford Discusses JavaScript SEO & Best Practices
In a recent episode of the “Search Off the Record” podcast, Martin Splitt and John Mueller, members of the Google Search team, sat down with Zoe Clifford from the rendering team to discuss the evolution of JavaScript and its impact on Google Search. The conversation provided a deep dive into the challenges and solutions of … Google’s Zoe Clifford Discusses JavaScript SEO & Best Practices
Dileep Thekkethil
Key Updates from Google Search News: July 2024 Edition
In the latest edition of “Google Search News,” John Mueller, a search advocate at Google, shared a variety of important updates and announcements related to Google Search. Here are the key takeaways from his presentation: AI Overviews Now Live in Some Countries One of the most significant announcements is the rollout of AI Overviews in … Key Updates from Google Search News: July 2024 Edition
Dileep Thekkethil
Country Labels in Google Search Snippets Spotted
Google is constantly evolving to provide users with the most relevant and contextual search results. The latest development in this endeavor is the testing of country labels in search result snippets. This new feature, observed by digital marketing enthusiasts, aims to inform users about the geographical origin of websites directly within the search results, influencing … Country Labels in Google Search Snippets Spotted
Dileep Thekkethil
Can Google Overcome Apple’s Safari Dominance?
Google is facing a major hurdle in increasing the adoption of its search apps on iPhones. Despite years of effort and substantial financial stakes, the tech giant’s attempts to shift iPhone users from Apple’s Safari to its own apps have seen limited success. This struggle comes at a time as Google faces an antitrust lawsuit … Can Google Overcome Apple’s Safari Dominance?
Zulekha Nishad
Can Small Sites Beat Big Ones? Google’s Gary Illyes Reveals the Secret
In today’s online world, websites like Reddit and Amazon often seem to dominate search engine results, making it hard for smaller sites to get noticed. However, Google’s Gary Illyes has shared some valuable tips to help small websites compete and outperform these big brands. Cracking The Code Of SEO Giants During the recent SERP conference, … Can Small Sites Beat Big Ones? Google’s Gary Illyes Reveals the Secret
Dileep Thekkethil
Streamline Robots.txt with CDNs, Says Gary Illyes
Google Analyst Gary Illyes has overturned a long-standing web management principle: the necessity of placing robots.txt files on the root domain. This insight, shared via LinkedIn, offers a fresh perspective on managing these crucial files, suggesting an alternative approach that promises to streamline site management and enhance operational efficiency. Breaking the Mold: New Robots.txt Rules … Streamline Robots.txt with CDNs, Says Gary Illyes
Zulekha Nishad
Google’s Desktop Search Market Share Set to Dip Below 80%
Google’s dominance in the global search market is on the brink of a significant decline. According to recent statistics, the tech giant’s market share is projected to fall below 80% by September 2024. Market Dynamics Shift On July 5, 2024, Charles Floate, tweeted a striking update. He shared a graph from StatCounter, depicting Google’s declining … Google’s Desktop Search Market Share Set to Dip Below 80%
Zulekha Nishad
Google SEO Leak 2024: Top 10 Ranking Factors Revealed
The SEO community has been abuzz following the May 2024 SEO leak of Google API data, which has revealed intricate details about the search giant’s ranking algorithms. These leaked documents reveal over 14,000 factors that Google might use to determine search rankings, providing an unprecedented glimpse into the mysterious world of Google’s search algorithm. This … Google SEO Leak 2024: Top 10 Ranking Factors Revealed
Zulekha Nishad
Cloudflare Unveils Advanced AI Scraper and Crawler Blocking Feature
In a significant move to support content creators, Cloudflare introduced a new feature to block AI bots from scraping website content. This development addresses the growing concerns within the industry about unauthorized data harvesting by AI scrapers, which has led to intellectual property theft and content devaluation. The Problem with AI Scrapers Unlike traditional search … Cloudflare Unveils Advanced AI Scraper and Crawler Blocking Feature
Dileep Thekkethil
Google Search Console Faces Extended Delays
Google Search Console is currently grappling with unprecedented delays and latency issues in its Performance reports. Google’s confirmation of the issue and its ongoing efforts to resolve it have met with both frustration and understanding across the industry. Delays and User Reactions Google Search Console is indispensable for monitoring website performance on Google Search. … Google Search Console Faces Extended Delays
Zulekha Nishad
AI Spam Outranks Original News: Industry Experts Sound Alarm
AI-generated spam is now outranking original journalism in Google search results, presenting a dilemma for news publishers and raising serious concerns about Google’s algorithmic efficacy, says a report published by WIRED. AI Spam Takes the Lead A recent incident highlighted the issue when a WIRED article about Adobe’s AI policies was overshadowed by a plagiarized … AI Spam Outranks Original News: Industry Experts Sound Alarm
Zulekha Nishad
Zero-Click Searches Dominate Google in 2024
A recent study reveals a significant trend in online search behavior, showing that a vast majority of Google searches end without a user clicking on any results. This phenomenon, known as “zero-click searches,” is reshaping how users interact with search engines and has profound implications for web publishers, marketers, and regulators. The Rise of Zero-Click … Zero-Click Searches Dominate Google in 2024
Zulekha Nishad
Fewer AI Overviews, More Citations: Google’s New Search Strategy
Google has made a major change by reducing the presence of AI Overviews (AIOs) across its search results, cutting them by approximately two-thirds. This decision comes after user feedback and a PR backlash, aiming to improve the accuracy and reliability of search results by incorporating more citations from credible sources. Google’s Bold Move One month, … Fewer AI Overviews, More Citations: Google’s New Search Strategy
Zulekha Nishad
Soft 404 Errors Could Be Damaging Your SEO Efforts, Warns Google
Google Analyst Gary Illyes has brought attention to a critical issue affecting websites – soft 404 error. According to Google, Web developers and SEO specialists must tackle the problem of soft 404 errors and their detrimental effects on web crawling and search engine optimization. Illyes stressed the need for proper error handling to make websites … Soft 404 Errors Could Be Damaging Your SEO Efforts, Warns Google
Zulekha Nishad
Google June 2024 Spam Update Completes Rollout
Google’s June 2024 spam update has fully rolled out, completing its process on June 27, 2024, at 9:10 PDT. This update, which lasted seven days, was designed to enhance the quality of search results by focusing on websites that breach Google’s spam policies. Announced via Google’s Search Central Twitter account, the June 2024 spam update … Google June 2024 Spam Update Completes Rollout
Zulekha Nishad
Does Google Have a Bias Towards Big Brands?
In a recent analysis, SEO expert AJ Kohn highlighted a major issue plaguing Google’s search results, where large brands dominate the top listings, leading to sub-optimal economic decisions for consumers. This phenomenon raises concerns about the reliability of Google as a trusted source for consumer advice and calls into question the efficacy of its search … Does Google Have a Bias Towards Big Brands?
Zulekha Nishad
Google Continuous Scroll in Search Results Discontinued
In a significant update to its search experience, Google has announced that it will discontinue the continuous scroll feature for search results. Starting June 25, 2024, desktop searches will revert to the classic pagination format, and the change will extend to mobile searches in the coming months. Continuous Scroll Bows Out: Google Reverts to Pagination … Google Continuous Scroll in Search Results Discontinued
Zulekha Nishad
When to Fix 404 Errors: Key Insights from Gary Illyes
Google has long maintained that having pages returning a HTTP 404 status code is a normal part of web management. Most websites encounter these errors, and when a page does not exist on your site, a 404 status code is the proper response. However, Gary Illyes from Google recently shared insights on LinkedIn, highlighting specific … When to Fix 404 Errors: Key Insights from Gary Illyes
Dileep Thekkethil
Using Entities in SEO Content for Higher Visibility
In a recent tweet, SEO expert Lily Ray shared an intriguing finding from her research on Rick Steves’ travel content. Her exploration led to an influx of Rick Steves-related articles in her Google Discover feed, many of which were from various travel websites rather than Steves’ official site. Interesting: now that I’ve started looking at … Using Entities in SEO Content for Higher Visibility
Zulekha Nishad
Google Favors Forums? Reddit Sees 39% Traffic Increase
Reddit’s website traffic has surged by an impressive 39% year-over-year, attributed to its increased visibility in Google search results. This development has sparked discussions on whether Google is prioritizing community-driven opinions over traditional expert content. Reddit’s Traffic Boom: The Numbers and Reasons According to data from Similarweb, Reddit’s substantial traffic growth aligns with its enhanced … Google Favors Forums? Reddit Sees 39% Traffic Increase
Zulekha Nishad
SEO Trends Post-Google Algorithm Updates: Zyppy Study Revealed
Recent updates from Google have caused big changes in how websites do SEO, especially those that rely on traditional optimization methods. Zyppy did a thorough study on 50 websites and utilized metrics from Ahrefs, which shows significant shifts in SEO dynamics post-major updates in 2023. Detailed Findings: Key SEO Practices and Their Correlation with Traffic … SEO Trends Post-Google Algorithm Updates: Zyppy Study Revealed
Zulekha Nishad
Google Announces June 2024 Spam Update: What You Need to Know
Google has officially released the June 2024 spam update, marking another significant step in the tech giant’s ongoing efforts to maintain the quality and integrity of search results. The announcement about the latest algorithm update, made via a series of tweets, indicates that the update may take up to one week to complete. Today we … Google Announces June 2024 Spam Update: What You Need to Know
Dileep Thekkethil
Toxic Links: Insights from Google Executives & SEO Impact
In a recent Google Webmaster Central Office Hours discussion, Google’s Gary Illyes addressed a pressing question about how to notify Google of potentially harmful or “toxic” links aimed at sabotaging a site’s backlink profile. The issue of toxic backlinks has troubled webmasters and SEO professionals for over fifteen years, raising concerns about the possible negative … Toxic Links: Insights from Google Executives & SEO Impact
Dileep Thekkethil
Big Changes on Google Maps: Policy Update Targets Fake Reviews
Google has updated its contributor policy for Maps, especially the section addressing false engagement. This change adds more clarification on the forms of conduct that are not authorized and provides a more thorough explanation of forbidden behaviors. It lengthens the original text by nearly 40%. The updated rules are far more precise and comprehensive. The … Big Changes on Google Maps: Policy Update Targets Fake Reviews
Zulekha Nishad
Disallow Crawling of Action URLs in Robots.txt, Says Garry Illyes
In a recent discussion on LinkedIn, Google Analyst Garry Illyes emphasized the importance of disallowing action URLs, such as “add to cart” and “add to wishlist,” in your robots.txt file. According to Garry, websites that disallow such links from getting crawled sees improved resource allocation while crawling and helps reduce server load. What Happened? Garry … Disallow Crawling of Action URLs in Robots.txt, Says Garry Illyes
Dileep Thekkethil
May 2024 Google Leak Emphasizes Author and Publisher Credibility
The May 2024 Google leak revealed the increasing importance of author and publisher entities in SEO. This means Google is now focusing on who creates and owns the content, pushing SEO professionals to update their strategies accordingly. Beyond Websites to Publishers and Authors For more than three decades, SEO efforts have mainly been about making … May 2024 Google Leak Emphasizes Author and Publisher Credibility
Zulekha Nishad
96% of Top 10 Ranking Sites On Google Have More Backlinks, Study
A recent analysis by Internet Marketing Ninjas has brought up striking insights into the backlink profiles of websites that rank in Google’s top 10 positions. This study highlights the importance of backlinks in achieving high search engine rankings, despite Google’s claims to the contrary. Key Findings from the Internet Marketing Ninjas Research The study conducted … 96% of Top 10 Ranking Sites On Google Have More Backlinks, Study
Zulekha Nishad
How Geographic Modifiers in Google’s API Shape Search Strategies?
Leaked internal documents from Google have revealed the role that geographic modifiers play in the company’s API infrastructure. These location-based markers, included in almost every API call, heavily influence search strategies for businesses and individuals. The inclusion of geographic modifiers is a deliberate effort by Google to align search results with the user’s location, fundamentally … How Geographic Modifiers in Google’s API Shape Search Strategies?
Zulekha Nishad
Perplexity Search Engine Breaks Ground in Google’s AI Overviews
Perplexity, a new smart search engine, introduced an exciting feature called Perplexity Pages on May 30. This feature lets users create and share detailed articles and guides on any topic. What’s interesting about Perplexity Pages is that they can appear in Google’s search results, making user-generated content more visible online. Understanding Perplexity Pages Perplexity Pages … Perplexity Search Engine Breaks Ground in Google’s AI Overviews
Zulekha Nishad
Why Social Media Is The New Search Engine For Gen Z?
The digital realm is witnessing a revolution unlike any before, driven by a generation that has never known a world without the internet at their fingertips: Gen Z. This tech-savvy group, born between the later 1990s and early 2010s, is fundamentally reshaping how we search for information and interact with brands, forcing even tech giants … Why Social Media Is The New Search Engine For Gen Z?
Zulekha Nishad
Google’s AI Overviews Witness Significant Decline in Search Visibility: What’s Behind the Drop?
In a startling revelation, recent analysis conducted by BrightEdge, a leading enterprise SEO platform, has uncovered a significant decline in the visibility of Google’s AI Overviews feature. Formerly known as Search Generative Experience during its experimental phase in Google Labs, AI Overviews once held sway over a staggering 84% of search queries. However, the latest … Google’s AI Overviews Witness Significant Decline in Search Visibility: What’s Behind the Drop?
Zulekha Nishad
Google Prepares Advertisers for Stringent State Data Privacy Laws
As state data privacy laws are getting ready to roll out later this year, Google Ads is getting advertisers ready for some big changes to its Restricted Data Processing (RDP) controls. They recently emailed U.S. advertisers who use Google Ads or Google Analytics, explaining the upcoming changes to follow the new rules. This comes as … Google Prepares Advertisers for Stringent State Data Privacy Laws
Zulekha Nishad
Google Sets Deadline: Mobile Optimization Mandatory by July 5
In a significant move impacting how users find websites, Google announced July 5, 2024, as a deadline for ensuring your website is mobile-friendly. Starting July 5th, Google will no longer index websites that aren’t optimized for mobile devices. This decision reflects the massive shift towards mobile browsing and prioritizes user experience. The Official Announcement In … Google Sets Deadline: Mobile Optimization Mandatory by July 5