We hope you are in good health. Here are some of the major SEO news updates of the week that you need to know:
Search Related News and Updates from Major Search Engine
Google Rolls Out its New March 2024 Spam Updates
Google announced its March 2024 spam updates, which are being rolled out to tackle various spamming techniques. These updates primarily focus on addressing issues related to scaled content, expired domain abuse, and site reputation abuse. With the increasing prevalence of spamming activities, it has become crucial for search engines like Google to update their algorithms and constantly combat these unethical practices.
Google Unleashes Manual Actions, Search Ranking Penalties You Can See Within Google Search Console
Google implemented several manual actions and search ranking penalties as part of its updated search spam policy. These actions can be observed within Google Search Console. The release of the new spam policy updates on Tuesday was followed by the distribution of these penalties on Wednesday, March 6th. It appears that Google is taking a proactive approach to combatting spam and improving the quality of search results. Webmasters and site owners should closely monitor their search console for any manual actions and take necessary steps to rectify any violations that may have triggered these penalties.
Google Hides Views Counts on New Reviews on Google Maps
Google Maps has made a subtle change in its review feature by no longer displaying the number of views a review receives. While users can still see the view counts for older reviews, the new reviews are not accompanied by this information. This modification may be part of Google’s efforts to streamline the user experience and focus more on the quality and relevance of the reviews rather than their popularity. By removing the view counts, Google aims to encourage users to focus on the content and usefulness of the reviews rather than being influenced solely by the number of views.
Google Updates the Recipe Rich Results Report Within Google Search Console
Google updated the recipe-rich results report in Google Search Console and streamlined its recipe structured data documentation. If you are a website owner or content creator who utilizes recipe structured data, you may notice an increase in warnings for your Recipe items due to these updates. The new properties that Search Console will now report on are recipeInstructions and recipeIngredient. These changes were implemented on March 6, 2024.
Microsoft Bing Deep Search is Now Live Again
Microsoft re-launched Bing Deep Search, a powerful search feature that provides users with more comprehensive and detailed results. However, this time, the Deep Search link comes with a disclaimer stating that the results may take approximately 30 seconds to generate. This is due to the use of GPT technology, which enables the search engine to deliver more accurate and relevant results. While the longer loading time may be a slight inconvenience for some users, the enhanced search capabilities of Bing Deep Search make it a valuable tool for those seeking in-depth information on a wide range of topics.
Microsoft Adds New Copilot Settings to Bing Search
Microsoft introduced new copilot settings to Bing Search, allowing users to customize their search experience. With these settings, users can now specify whether they want Copilot to display responses directly on the search results page. This feature enhances convenience by providing immediate access to relevant information without having to navigate away from the search results. Additionally, users can also choose whether they want to scroll up to see Copilot, further personalizing their browsing experience.
Microsoft Bing New Webmaster Tools IndexNow Insights & Top SEO Insights
Microsoft updated its Bing Webmaster Tools, specifically focusing on the IndexNow reports. These reports have now been renamed IndexNow Insights, providing webmasters with valuable information about their website’s indexing status. Additionally, Microsoft has introduced new Top SEO Insights, which can be accessed directly from the main page of the Webmaster Tools. These insights aim to offer webmasters valuable tips and recommendations to improve their website’s search engine optimization (SEO) performance.
Social Media Related News and Updates from Major Search Engine
Instagram Introduces New Direct Messaging Features With Editing, Themes, & More
Instagram rolled out new features for its Direct Messaging platform aimed at enhancing user experience and personalization. One of the key updates includes the ability to edit messages, allowing users to correct any typos or mistakes made in their conversations. Additionally, users can now pin important chats, ensuring that they are easily accessible and not lost among other messages. Instagram has also introduced the option to toggle read receipts and save their favorite stickers, making it easier to express themselves in their conversations. Lastly, Instagram has added new themes for personalizing chats, allowing users to choose a visual aesthetic that aligns with their preferences and style.
YouTube Dispels Common Myths About its Recommendation Algorithm
In a video interview with a growth team leader, YouTube dispelled some common myths surrounding its recommendation algorithm. One key point clarified is that the algorithm focuses on individual videos rather than channel averages. This means that YouTube aims to show you videos that align with your interests and preferences rather than just basing recommendations on overall channel popularity. Another important myth debunked is that the algorithm does not punish channels for taking breaks or experiencing decreased views.
PPC Related News and Updates from Major Search Engine
Google Ads Introduces “Solutions” for Simplified Campaign Management and Automation
Google introduced a new tool called “Solutions” in Google Ads, aimed at providing advertisers with a streamlined campaign management experience. This free tool can be found in the “Tools” section of Google Ads and offers various features to automate tasks and enhance advertising efforts. With Solutions, advertisers can generate performance reports to gain valuable insights into their campaigns, manage budgets more effectively, and optimize their advertising strategies efficiently. By providing these capabilities, Google aims to simplify the process for advertisers and enable them to make data-driven decisions to drive better results.
Google Ads Announces it Will Automatically Pause Inactive Ad Groups
Google Ads announced an automatic pause feature for inactive ad groups. This new initiative aims to improve the overall efficiency and performance of Google Ads accounts. According to Google, ad groups that were created at least 13 months ago and have not generated any impressions within the past 13 months will be paused automatically. This change is set to take effect on March 11, 2024, providing advertisers with ample time to review and optimize their existing ad groups. However, it is worth noting that the rollout process may take several weeks to be completed for all production Google Ads accounts, with an estimated completion date of April 30, 2024.
Google Will Introduce New Verification Process for its Local Service Ads Program
Google announced that it will be implementing a new verification process for its Local Service Ads Program. This process aims to ensure the credibility and authenticity of the lawyers participating in the program. To complete the ID verification process, lawyers will be required to submit their identity documents through Evident, a trusted platform for identity verification. It is important to note that this verification process is solely focused on confirming the accuracy of the lawyer’s name and does not intend to conduct a background check.
Google Releases Version 2.6 of the Google Ads Editor
Google unveiled version 2.6 of the Google Ads Editor, a powerful tool designed to streamline the management of Google Ads campaigns. This downloadable application is available for free, allowing advertisers to make changes in bulk and save valuable time. With the Google Ads Editor, users can easily modify ad copy, adjust bids, and update targeting settings across multiple campaigns simultaneously. The latest release brings enhanced functionality and improved performance, providing advertisers with even more control and flexibility in managing their Google Ads campaigns.
