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 Discover Is Coming to Desktop Search: What You Need to Know
Google has confirmed it’s testing the Discover feed on desktop search, bringing personalized content like news and articles to the Google.com homepage. The feature is currently available to select users in the U.S. using Chrome while logged into their Google account. It mirrors the mobile experience, aiming to boost user engagement on desktop. This change could offer new visibility opportunities for content publishers.
Google Adds Merchant Opportunities Report to Search Console
Google has revamped the “Shopping tab listings report” in Search Console, now renamed to the Merchant Opportunities Report. This enhanced report gives retailers more control over their Google Shopping presence by allowing them to manage payment options, shipping and return policies, and store ratings. The update aims to improve store visibility and the customer experience on Google Shopping. It provides actionable insights to help merchants optimize how their listings appear in search results.
Google Clarifies Disavow Tool Is Not for Routine SEO Maintenance
Google’s John Mueller stated that the disavow tool is not meant for regular site maintenance, but rather for extreme cases where a site has engaged in manipulative link building. He emphasized that most websites do not need to use it, as Google can typically ignore low-quality or spammy links automatically. The tool originated during the Penguin update era to address manual link penalties. Mueller advised caution, as unnecessary use of the tool can do more harm than good.
Google Maps Upgrades AI to Combat Fake Reviews and Suspicious Edits
Google Maps is now using Gemini AI to detect and block fake reviews and suspicious changes to Business Profiles. This includes identifying abnormal edits like changing a business category from “café” to “plumber.” The AI system helps maintain the integrity of local listings and supports businesses in protecting their online reputation. Businesses are encouraged to audit their profiles regularly to align with Google’s enhanced content policies.
Unconfirmed Google Search Ranking Volatility Spotted on April 9–10
Significant volatility in Google Search rankings was observed on April 9 and 10, 2025, based on third-party tracking tools and SEO community chatter. Despite no official confirmation from Google, many SEOs are reporting drastic changes in rankings and traffic. Some speculate this could be linked to ongoing updates or a reversal of recent core changes. The SEO community remains on high alert as fluctuations continue.
Google Increases AI Overviews in Search Results
Google is now displaying AI-generated overviews more frequently in search results, according to multiple third-party tracking tools. These overviews appear in up to 30% of queries, depending on the data provider. The rise has been both sudden and gradual across different platforms, including Semrush, BrightEdge, and Similarweb. This shift signals Google’s growing reliance on AI to summarize and present information directly in search.
PPC Related News and Updates from Major Search Engine
Google Search Tests Video Ads in Search Results
Google is testing video ad formats directly within search results, as spotted in a recent Adidas ad. While not entirely new, these video ads remain relatively rare and have been experimented with since as far back as 2008. The latest sighting shows Google’s continued interest in expanding multimedia ad formats. This could signal a growing shift toward more engaging, visual advertising in standard search listings.
Google Ads Clarifies Suspension Policies with Updated Examples and Language
Google Ads has updated the language and structure of several policy pages related to account suspensions, including those on misrepresentation, billing, and ad network abuse. While the core policies remain the same, the new versions include clearer examples and refined language for better understanding. These changes aim to help advertisers navigate suspensions more effectively and avoid violations. The updates reflect an ongoing effort to improve policy transparency without altering enforcement practices.
Google Knowledge Panel AI Overviews Now Show Reference Links
Google has started displaying reference links within AI-generated overviews in its Knowledge Panels, similar to the format used in AI Overviews. Users can now click on “References” to view the sources, such as Wikipedia or other cited websites. This move increases transparency and allows users to verify the origin of the summarized content. It mirrors features previously seen on Bing, suggesting intensified competition between search engines.
Google Ads Adds Lifecycle Goals and Image Controls to Performance Max Campaigns
Google Ads has introduced new customer lifecycle goals and enhanced image controls in Performance Max campaigns. Advertisers can now target lapsed customers with retention goals and use customer acquisition cost reporting more effectively. Image controls allow Google to pull visuals from landing pages and automatically generate image variants through cropping, with future options like uncropping and animation planned. These updates aim to help advertisers better manage creative assets and optimize campaign performance.
