Stay Up To Date With The Latest SEO News
With search engine marketing and platforms evolving rapidly, it is essential to stay abreast of the most up-to-date SEO news. Here are some recent updates from Google, AMP, and more for your consideration.
Google’s new BERT algorithm aids it in understanding language and context better, leading to more relevant results. Additionally, AMP crawling and passage indexing are two new tools available for publishers.
1. Google’s BERT Algorithm
Google’s BERT Algorithm is the latest and largest algorithm update in company history. This upgrade relies on a neural network-based technique that better comprehends word context in search queries.
In October, the BERT algorithm was released and made its way to English-language searches. This new approach emphasizes user intent rather than penalizing businesses for keyword optimization.
BERT takes into account the full context of a query, so it can provide results more in line with what a searcher wants to learn. For instance, if someone types in “how to park on a hill without curb,” the new algorithm understands they want an explanation and provides relevant results accordingly.
Given this, it’s essential to comprehend your target audience fully so you can craft content which resonates with and benefits them. Doing this will lay a strong foundation for successful SEO progress moving forward.
2. Google’s AMP Crawl
Accelerated Mobile Pages (AMP), also known as Accelerated Mobile Pages, is Google’s HTML framework designed to deliver ultra-fast mobile versions of webpages from desktop-optimized sites. The goal is to reduce page loading time and boost conversions and click-through rates.
However, AMP is still young and its future uncertain. It’s also a complex platform that offers many advantages but also some drawbacks.
For instance, AMP pages tend to be indexed faster than non-AMP ones, but this is not a guarantee. Furthermore, Google does not give a page an edge in rankings just because it has an AMP page.
3. Google’s Passage Indexing
Google is constantly working to enhance how it finds and delivers answers to searches. In its never-ending quest, it introduces algorithms that ensure users get the most pertinent results.
Passage indexing is Google’s latest innovation that highlights passages and sections within content. This will be especially beneficial to websites with lengthy pieces of writing.
For instance, if your blog offers lots of information and advice without being completely focused on one subject, passage indexing can help it rank for relevant searches.
Martin Splitt, a Google employee, explained that this change will affect seven percent of English-language search queries. This new development gives users more options when looking for specific instructions or niche answers.
4. Google’s Google Assistant
The Google Assistant is a voice-activated virtual personal assistant born out of Google Now. You can use it to launch apps and devices, ask questions, make plans, and carry out various useful tasks with ease.
The assistant can serve as a digital voice minder, reminding you of important tasks or dates. It even assists in controlling smart home devices like Nest’s thermostat or Philips Hue lighting.
One of the best Assistant commands is Lens, which utilizes your smartphone camera to translate signs and text in foreign languages. Compatible with Android phones, iOS phones, and Google Home, Lens provides accurate translations every time.
5. Google’s Visual Redesign of Mobile Search
Google’s latest design update aims to simplify things for searchers, bringing information into focus and improving text readability.
Specifically, the redesign will make it simpler for mobile users to scan Search results and read them quickly. Larger text will be used, along with more of Google’s own font.
The redesigned mobile search experience will also include new knowledge panels, which include photos, a small map, directions and weather. Instead of displaying links in an alphabetical list format, these informational boxes utilize vibrant card-style blocks that intersperse media content.