#SEO algorithm changes

[optidan]

Algorithm Updates and Their Impact on Your eCommerce Store

Algorithm updates have a profound impact on eCommerce stores, shaping how they rank in search engine results. These changes can significantly affect visibility and traffic, making SEO strategies crucial for survival and growth in the competitive online retail landscape. Search engines like Google continually update their algorithms to enhance user experience and relevance of search results. For…

[beazt]

I made an angry post about this recently but google has literally become functionally useless over the last few months and like. I don’t think I realized just how horrible it’d be

[prasaddhumal82]

Google Search Ranking volatility April 22nd and 23rd

SEO professionals and webmasters are once again witnessing significant Google Search ranking volatility over the past few days, particularly between April 21 and April 23, 2025. While there’s no official confirmation of a Google algorithm update during this period, the evidence strongly suggests another round of ranking algorithm testing or adjustments. Unofficial Yet Consistent Volatility Across…

[brandingdevelopment]

The Future of AI in SEO: How AI is Changing Search Algorithms

Explore how AI is revolutionizing the world of SEO and transforming search algorithms. Discover the role of machine learning, natural language processing, and automation in reshaping search engine results. Learn how businesses and marketers can leverage AI to optimize content, improve rankings, and stay ahead of the competition in the ever-evolving digital landscape.

Read more:

[techsavvy-agcy]

Decoding the Google Core Update, March 2025

Decoding the Google Core Update, March 2025

On March 13th, 2025, the constantly changing and unforeseeable digital world felt another major shakeup with the release of Google's newest core algorithm update. Just like before, the official explanation of the update was typically unclear, highlighting the continued focus on "rewarding top-notch content" and "enhancing search accuracy." Still, the impact was evident, causing a lot of worry and hurried changes in the SEO field.

This piece explores the effects, some educated guesses, and the best ways to handle the Google Core update from March 13th, 2025. It aims to clarify how the algorithm is changing and what that means for those who run websites and create content.

The Aftermath: Search Results in Flux

Right after the update, the search engine results pages (SERPs) saw some major shifts. Tools that monitor such volatility showed huge jumps, pointing to big changes in rankings across different sectors. Initial reports zeroed in on a few key areas:

E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness): Google has always cared a lot about E-E-A-T in how they judge website quality, but the update in March 2025 seemed to turn up the volume on it. Websites that showed they knew their stuff, had proven expertise, were authoritative, and were super trustworthy did a lot better.

Content Authenticity and Originality: Google seemed to get much stricter about content that AI just cranked out without much original thought or real value. Sites that used a bunch of rehashed content, rewritten articles, or stuff that looked like it came straight from an AI template saw their rankings take a nosedive.

User Experience (UX) and Page Experience: Things like how fast your site loads, if it's easy to use on mobile, and overall how user-friendly it is were way more important after the update. Slow websites, had annoying pop-ups or were a pain to use on phones got dinged.

Contextual Relevance and Semantic Understanding: Google's update appeared to fine-tune its capacity for grasping the context and purpose embedded within search queries. Sites that provided comprehensive, in-depth content that addressed the nuances of user searches saw improvements.

Data Driven Content: Websites that used first party data to personalize and improve user experiences, and that used data to back up claims, saw significant improvements.

Analyzing the Algorithm's Evolving Priorities

The Rise of "Human-Centric" Content: The update reinforced the notion that Google is prioritizing content created by humans, for humans. This goes beyond simply avoiding AI-generated text; it emphasizes the importance of genuine insights, personal experiences, and a conversational tone.

Emphasis on Real-World Experience: The "Experience" element of E-E-A-T took center stage. This suggests that Google is placing greater value on content creators who have real-world experience in the topics they cover. First hand accounts and demonstrations of real world product usage were rewarded.

Combatting Misinformation and Disinformation: In an era of rampant misinformation, Google appeared to be strengthening its defenses against unreliable or misleading content. This involved stricter scrutiny of sources, a greater emphasis on fact-checking, and a preference for content from established authorities.

The Importance of Contextual Understanding: The upgrade demonstrated Google's developing capacity to understand linguistic nuances and the context of user enquiries. This shows that semantic SEO and topic clustering are becoming more important.

Privacy and User Data: With growing user concern about privacy, Google's algorithm appears to be rewarding sites with clear data-gathering policies that prioritize customer privacy.

Video and Multimedia: Video content, especially content that is original, well produced, and engaging, got a large boost in rankings. Long form, well edited videos, that are not just re-purposed content, were very well received by the algorithm.

Emerging Best Practices for the Post-March 2025 Landscape

In the wake of the update, website owners and content creators were forced to adapt their strategies. The following best practices emerged as essential for navigating the evolving search landscape:

Prioritize E-E-A-T: Focus on increasing your brand's authority and trustworthiness. Display your knowledge through author profiles, credentials, and real-world experience. Seek expert contributions and endorsements.

Create Original, High-Quality Content: Invest in original research, in-depth analysis, and distinctive opinions. Avoid using AI-generated content that lacks originality or value.

Optimize the user experience:  Make sure your website is speedy, mobile-friendly, and simple to navigate. Address Core Web Vitals concerns and prioritize a consistent user experience.

Embrace semantic SEO: Create content that takes into account the complexities of user intent and search query context. Topic clustering and semantic keywords can help you develop topical authority.

Build Authentic Backlinks: Concentrate on obtaining high-quality backlinks from credible sources. Avoid using black-hat link-building strategies.

Focus on Data and Transparency:  Show users how data is gathered and used. Ensure that privacy policies are explicit and user data is secure.

Invest in Video Content: Make high-quality, engaging videos that add value to your viewers. Optimize videos for search and make them accessible.

Monitor and Adapt: Stay up to current on algorithm updates, and regularly monitor the performance of your website. Prepare to adapt your strategies as needed.

Focus on First-Party Data: Collect and use first-party data to tailor the customer experience. This enables more targeted content and a better experience.

Create a Community:  Create a user community centered around your brand. This can be accomplished using social media, forums, and other online channels. Strong communities generate social signals, which Google values.

The long-term implications

The Google core upgrade on March 13th, 2025, marked a substantial shift in the algorithm's objectives, emphasizing the significance of human-centric information, genuine expertise, and a user-first approach. As Google improves its comprehension of language and user intent, website owners and content providers must adapt to the changing standards.

The update is likely to have the following long-term implications:

A More Level Playing Field for Smaller Websites: By emphasizing E-E-A-T and original material, Google may level the playing field for smaller websites that can demonstrate actual expertise and offer distinctive value.

A Decline in Low-Quality, AI-Generated Content: The crackdown on AI-generated content is expected to result in a decrease in low-quality, spammy content that clutters the SERPs.

A Greater Emphasis on User Experience: Google's continuous emphasis on UX is likely to result in overall improvements in website design and performance.

A More Contextually Relevant Search Experience: Google's improved semantic understanding is expected to result in a more relevant and fulfilling search experience for users.

A renewed focus on the human element of content creation: The value of real people, and their real-world experiences, will only continue to increase.

In conclusion, the March 13th, 2025, Google core update served as a stark reminder of the dynamic nature of the digital landscape. By prioritizing E-E-A-T, originality, user experience, and contextual understanding, Google is pushing website owners and content creators to embrace a more human-centric and value-driven approach. Those who can adapt to these evolving standards will be well-positioned to thrive in the years to come. The future of search is focused on genuine human connection and genuine human experience.

[blessedmediaa]

Certified Digital Marketers in the UK

Top 5 Certified Digital Marketers in the UK

Introduction

Certified Digital Marketers in the UK, staying ahead of the competition requires expertise, innovation, and a deep understanding of the latest trends. Businesses across the UK are increasingly turning to certified digital marketing professionals to achieve online success.

But with so many professionals offering digital marketing services, how do you identify the best? In this blog, we introduce the top 5 certified digital marketers in the UK, each known for their exceptional skills and proven track record. Whether you’re a startup, an established brand, or an entrepreneur, working with the right expert can be a game-changer for your business.

Why Work with a Certified Digital Marketer in the UK?

Digital marketing is more than just running ads or posting content on social media. It involves strategic planning, data analysis, and the ability to adapt to ever-changing algorithms. Here’s why hiring a certified digital marketer in the UK is crucial:

Expertise in SEO & PPC – Improve rankings and get more traffic.

Content & Social Media Mastery – Engage and grow your audience.

Data-Driven Decision Making – Maximize ROI with analytics.

Updated Knowledge – Stay ahead with the latest digital trends.

Now, let’s explore the top digital marketing experts in the UK who can help take your business to the next level.

Top 5 Certified Digital Marketers in the UK

1. Neil Patel – The Global SEO Authority Certified Digital Marketers in the UK

Expertise: SEO, Content Marketing, Growth Hacking Neil Patel is a globally recognized digital marketing expert with deep expertise in SEO and content marketing. His strategies have helped businesses across the UK and beyond achieve remarkable online success.

Why Choose Neil Patel?

Proven strategies for SEO growth and traffic increase.

Offers free tools for SEO and marketing analysis.

Works with leading brands worldwide.

If you’re looking for top-rated digital marketers in the UK specializing in organic growth, Neil Patel is a name you can trust.

2. Andrew Davis – The Content Marketing Specialist Certified Digital Marketers in the UK

Expertise: Storytelling, Branding, Digital Strategy Andrew Davis is a well-known figure in the digital marketing space, focusing on content marketing and brand storytelling. He has worked with businesses across the UK to enhance their online engagement and brand authority.

Why Choose Andrew Davis?

Helps businesses craft powerful brand stories.

Expert in video content marketing.

One of the leading digital marketing experts in the UK.

If content is the backbone of your digital strategy, Andrew Davis can help you create compelling narratives that connect with your audience.

3. Marie Page – The Social Media Growth Expert

Expertise: Social Media Marketing, Facebook Ads, Engagement Strategies Marie Page is a certified digital marketing professional in the UK specializing in social media growth and paid advertising. She has helped countless brands scale their online presence through strategic campaigns.

Why Choose Marie Page?

Expertise in Facebook and Instagram Ads.

Helps businesses build strong online communities.

Recognized as one of the best online marketers in the UK.

If you’re looking to grow your brand’s social media presence, Marie Page’s strategies are highly effective.

4. Luke Brynley-Jones – The Paid Advertising & Strategy Expert

Expertise: PPC, LinkedIn Marketing, Lead Generation Luke Brynley-Jones is a top digital marketing specialist in the UK with expertise in paid advertising and lead generation. He has helped businesses increase their ROI through data-driven ad strategies.

Why Choose Luke Brynley-Jones?

Specializes in LinkedIn marketing & lead generation.

Helps businesses optimize ad spend for maximum ROI.

Known as a certified marketing professional in the UK.

For businesses focused on B2B marketing and paid ad strategies, Luke Brynley-Jones is a top choice.

5. Gavin Bell – The Facebook Advertising Guru

Expertise: Facebook Ads, Sales Funnels, Conversion Optimization Gavin Bell is widely regarded as one of the best digital marketers in the UK, particularly in the field of Facebook advertising. He has helped businesses improve their ad performance and maximize conversions.

Why Choose Gavin Bell?

Expert in high-converting Facebook ad campaigns.

Helps brands reduce ad costs while increasing leads.

Recognized as one of the top-rated digital marketers in the UK.

If paid social media advertising is your priority, Gavin Bell’s expertise can help you achieve the best results.

How to Choose the Right Digital Marketer for Your Business

Finding the right certified digital marketer in the UK depends on your business goals. Here’s how to choose the best one for you:

1. Identify Your Goals

Do you need help with SEO, social media marketing, or paid advertising? Define your objectives before selecting a marketer.

2. Check Certifications & Experience

A certified digital marketing professional in the UK should have credentials from recognized institutions like Google, HubSpot, or Facebook.

3. Review Case Studies & Testimonials

Look at their past work and success stories. This helps you understand their expertise and effectiveness.

4. Evaluate Their Strategy & Approach

Each marketer has a unique method. Ensure their approach aligns with your brand’s vision and budget.

5. Compare Pricing & ROI

While hiring an expert is an investment, consider the return on investment (ROI) they can deliver.

Final Thoughts

The digital marketing industry in the UK is thriving, and having the right expert by your side can elevate your brand’s success. Whether you need an SEO specialist, social media marketer, or advertising strategist, these top 5 certified digital marketers in the UK are among the best in the industry.

At BlessedMediaa, we understand the importance of expert-driven marketing solutions. If you’re looking for a trusted digital marketing agency in the UK, we’re here to help.

🚀 Want to grow your business online? Contact BlessedMediaa today for customized digital marketing strategies!

Key Takeaways

✅ Working with a certified digital marketer in the UK ensures expertise in SEO, PPC, content marketing, and social media. ✅ Neil Patel, Andrew Davis, Marie Page, Luke Brynley-Jones, and Gavin Bell are among the top digital marketing specialists in the UK. ✅ Choose a marketer based on your business goals, experience, and ROI potential. ✅ Digital marketing success depends on expert-driven strategies and continuous optimization.

🔹 Need expert digital marketing services? Contact BlessedMediaa today!

If you found this article informative, be sure to share your thoughts or questions in the comments section below. Stay tuned for more insights on groundbreaking technologies, and don’t forget to subscribe for the latest updates.

Thank you for reading!

[digitalpreeyam-seoexpert]

Google constantly updates its search algorithm to improve user experience and provide the most relevant results. These updates range from minor tweaks to major changes that significantly impact website rankings. Google’s primary goal is to enhance search accuracy, combat spam, and prioritize high-quality content.

Key updates like Panda, Penguin, Hummingbird, RankBrain, BERT, and Helpful Content Update have reshaped SEO strategies over the years. In recent times, Google’s focus has shifted towards AI-driven search, E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness), and Core Web Vitals for better page experience.

For SEOs and businesses, staying updated on algorithm changes is crucial to maintaining online visibility. Regularly monitoring Google Search Console, following SEO best practices, and focusing on user-centric content can help websites adapt effectively. As Google continues evolving, those who prioritize quality content, user experience, and ethical SEO strategies will stay ahead in the search game.

[lordsmerchantco]

The Google Core Update – March 2025: What You Need to Know

Table of Contents Introduction Understanding Google Core Updates Overview of the March 2025 Core Update Key Changes and Trends Impact on Websites and Rankings Case Study: Websites Affected by the Update SEO Experiments and Findings Impact on Click-Through Rates (CTR) Impact on Conversions and Revenue Sentiments of B2B and B2C Audiences Featured Snippets and Knowledge Panels People…

[diginp2020]

Why Digital Marketing is Important ?

Importance of digital marketing in today’s fast-paced digital world, businesses must adapt to the ever-changing landscape to stay relevant and competitive. Digital marketing has emerged as a critical component of a successful business strategy. Whether you’re a small local business or a large multinational corporation, digital marketing offers numerous benefits that can help you reach your goals.…

[bulletsandbracelets]

Queueing this for further context and to bump this in the notes again. If you can, reblog this with the info, just so people know what is actually up.

SEO indexing is tricky. Different search engines treat meta tags different ways and it can change with updates at any point. Aside from that, if you update this setting, you have to wait for google to crawl your blog again in order for the setting to register and actually apply. This can take a while! (Tumblr can, and probably does, speed this up by requesting crawls explicitly and providing routes. They don’t appear to have a sitemap, but if you use google search console, you don’t really need one).

If google doesn’t crawl your blog with that meta tag set, it will not know to remove your blog from the search results. Unfortunately you can’t request (or inspect) indexing on urls you don’t manage, so unless you use a custom domain for your blog, you will have to wait for Tumblr and google to handle it.

oh my god. they changed the "hide my blog from search results" setting to "discourage searching of my blog". ie it's no longer possible to stop google & co from indexing your blog.

this feels like the kind of change tumblr should give a heads up about rather than silently make. if you have a blog, google is indexing it now. there is no way to stop google from indexing your blog now. regardless of previous settings, your blog is now being indexed by search engines. you can't turn this off.

[ideatick]

Google’s Algorithm Changes: What’s Next For SEO In 2024

Google’s SEO game is ever-changing, and 2024 is no exception. We will need to create authentic content, understand and adapt to AI-powered updates, optimize for voice search, and build our entity as a trusted source to stay ahead. Visuals, schema markup, and granular local SEO are also crucial. Embrace these trends and create genuine value to thrive in 2024’s SEO landscape. Let us understand how we can stay ahead with changing Google algorithms.

What Are Google Algorithm Changes All About?

Google’s algorithm changes are all about improving the quality of search results and delivering the most relevant and helpful information to users. These changes often focus on various aspects, but some key themes emerge:

User-centricity: Google prioritizes results that genuinely address user needs and intent. This means content should be high-quality, informative, and written with the user in mind. Keyword stuffing and manipulative tactics are no longer effective.

Expertise and Trust: Google values content from established and trustworthy sources. This involves building your website’s authority in your niche and demonstrating expertise through well-researched content and credible sources.

Understanding Language Nuances: AI plays an increasingly important role, allowing Google to understand the meaning and context of queries better. Optimizing for natural language and long-tail keywords that reflect how people search is crucial.

Entity-based Search: Google focuses on understanding entities (topics, brands, people) and their relationships. Building your “entity” as a trusted source in your field becomes vital, leveraging knowledge panels, local results, and topical authority.

Technical SEO & User Experience: Beyond content, Google considers technical factors like site speed, mobile-friendliness, and structured data (schema markup) that help users navigate efficiently.

Adaptability & Continuous Improvement: Google’s algorithm updates are frequent and often subtle. The key is to stay informed, be adaptable, and focus on creating genuine value and improving your content and user experience over time.

Remember, Google’s ultimate goal is to provide the best possible search experience. By understanding these themes and adapting your SEO strategy accordingly, you can stay ahead of the curve and ensure your website thrives in the ever-evolving search landscape.

Evolution Of SERPs

Remember the simple, text-heavy SERPs of the 90s? Those days are long gone. Our journey through the evolution of search results showcases a dramatic transformation, driven by innovation and ever-evolving user needs.

Early Days: Setting the Stage: In the late 90s, SERPs were basic, ranking websites primarily based on keyword density and backlinks. Think plain text listings, devoid of the visual appeal and rich information we’re accustomed to today.

Multimedia Explosion: Adding Color and Depth: The 2000s saw the exciting arrival of images and videos, bringing visual flair and engagement to search results. Local SERPs emerged, tailoring results to your specific location and intent. Social media’s influence began to peek through, with the integration of user reviews and sentiment.

Knowledge & AI Take Center Stage: The past decade ushered in an era of knowledge and artificial intelligence. Knowledge panels and featured snippets adorned SERPs, offering rich information directly on the search page. Voice search optimization soared, emphasizing natural language and long-tail keywords. AI-powered ranking algorithms started considering deeper aspects like content quality, user engagement, and context, moving beyond the keyword-centric approach.

Current Trends: A Dynamic Landscape: Today’s SERPs are a dynamic tapestry woven with captivating visuals, interactive elements like maps and carousels, and even personalization based on your unique search history and preferences. Establishing your website as an authority in your niche requires expertise and trust.

Looking Ahead: A Glimpse into the Future: The future promises even more integration of AI, enabling algorithms to understand user intent and nuanced language like never before. Expect SERPs to adapt to your specific needs and context, becoming dynamic companions on your search journey. Voice search dominance is predicted, with most queries flowing through voice assistants. Ultimately, user experience will remain paramount, emphasizing the importance of lightning-fast loading times and seamless mobile-friendliness.

Impact Of The Rise Of AI On Changing Google Algorithm

The rise of AI has significantly impacted Google’s algorithm and how it approaches search, with these changes both benefiting and challenging SEO practices.

Understanding user intent & context: AI-powered Natural Language Processing (NLP) allows Google to better understand user intent. It means keywords alone are no longer enough; content needs to address the more profound meaning and context of what users are searching for.

Personalized search results: AI personalizes search results based on individual user history, location, and preferences. It means content needs to be adaptable and relevant to a broader range of user profiles.

Focus on Expertise and Trust: Google favors content from established and trustworthy sources. AI helps identify sites with expertise in specific topics, making authority-building crucial for SEO.

Entity-based Search: Google increasingly focuses on understanding entities (topics, brands, people) and their relationships. Building your “entity” as a trusted source in your field becomes vital for better visibility.

Rise of Voice Search: AI powers voice assistants and voice search, where natural language queries are prevalent. Optimizing for long-tail keywords and conversational language becomes important.

AI-powered SEO tools: AI tools analyze data, identify trends, and offer optimization suggestions, helping businesses create content that aligns with Google’s evolving algorithm.

Prepare For The Future Of SEO With Changing Google Algorithm

Google’s algorithm is constantly changing and adapting to provide the best search experience for users. To thrive in this evolving terrain, focus on this SEO strategy for the future:

User-Centric Content Creation: Modern SEO demands a departure from keyword stuffing in favor of valuable, user-focused content. By addressing user queries, solving problems, etc., and offering unique insights, businesses can foster meaningful engagement. Quality content attracts users and enhances their experience, ultimately driving better SEO performance and customer satisfaction.

Contextual Understanding: Delving deeper into the context surrounding search queries is paramount. By understanding user intent and potential follow-up questions, businesses can tailor their content to provide more comprehensive solutions. Anticipating user needs and aligning content accordingly enhances relevance, improves user experience, and boosts SEO performance in an increasingly competitive landscape.

Multimedia Engagement: In today’s digital landscape, multimedia elements play a crucial role in engaging audiences. Integrating high-quality visuals, videos, and interactive features into content captures attention and effectively communicates information. This multimedia approach enhances user experience, encourages longer dwell times, and contributes to improved SEO performance by making content more appealing and shareable.

Authority Establishment: Building trust and credibility is essential for SEO success. Establishing your website as a trusted authority within your niche requires consistently publishing well-researched content, citing credible sources, and showcasing expertise. By offering valuable insights and information, businesses can earn the trust of both users and search engines, leading to improved visibility, higher rankings, and increased organic traffic.

Technological Adaptation: Staying ahead of technological advancements is crucial for maintaining SEO competitiveness. With the rise of AI-driven features like NLP and entity-based search, businesses must adapt their strategies accordingly. Leveraging AI-powered SEO tools allows for data-driven decision-making and optimization efforts that align with evolving algorithms, ensuring continued visibility and relevance in search results.

Strategic Optimization: Effective SEO requires a multifaceted approach that encompasses various optimization techniques. Prioritizing voice search optimization, technical SEO enhancements, schema markup implementation, and local SEO strategies can significantly impact visibility and relevance. Continuous measurement, iteration, and adjustment based on performance metrics and user feedback are essential for staying agile and competitive in the dynamic digital landscape.

Conclusion

Navigating Google’s ever-evolving algorithm requires a proactive approach that prioritizes user-centricity, authority establishment, technological adaptation, and strategic optimization. By embracing these pillars of modern SEO, businesses can position themselves for success in the dynamic digital landscape of 2024 and beyond.

As you prepare for the future of SEO, consider partnering with a trusted digital marketing expert like Ideatick. With over five years of experience and a proven track record in various digital marketing aspects, including SEO, Ideatick can help propel your online presence to new heights. Contact us today to learn more and embark on your journey towards SEO excellence.

[txttletale]

I’ve changed most of my views on AI bc of your posts, but do you have any thoughts on/remedies for people losing their jobs to AI? Or is it a “people are gonna lose their jobs one way or another, it’s not actually AI’s fault” kind of deal…? Sorry if you’ve already talked about this before

there's somethign that riley quinn from the trashfuture podcast keeps saying -- "if your job can be replaced by AI, it was already being done by AI". which is to say, that jobs most at risk from AI replacement are ones that were borderline automated anyway. like, i say this as someone who used to write, not for the website buzzfeed itself, but buzzfeed-adjacent Slop Content for money -- i was already just the middlewoman between the SEO optimization algorithm and the google search algorithm. those jobs vanishing primarily means that middlewoman role has been cut, computers can tell other computers to write for computers.

& similarly this is why i keep saying that, e.g. stock photographers are at risk from this, because the ideal use case for generative AI content is stuff where the actual content or quality of the image/text doesn't matter, all that matters is its presence. and yknow, living in a world where many people's livelihoods were dependent on writing and art that is fully replacable by inane computer drivel is itself indicative of something about culture under capitalism, right?

& to some degree, like i'm always saying, the immiseration of workers by advancement in technology is a universal feature of capitalism -- i recommend you read wage labour & capital to see how this phenomenon has persisted for well over a century. it's simply nothing new -- like, the stock photographers who are most at risk from this already are already employed in an industry that itself decimated in-house illustration; think about how any dime-a-dozen reomance novel you can pick up at a store nowadays has a hastily photoshopped stock photo cover when fifty years ago it would have had a bespoke cover illustration that an artist got paid for.

of course, none of that historical overview is like, comforting to people who are currently worried about their lives getting worse, and i get that -- for those people, workplace organization and industrial action is the only realistic and productive avenue to mobilize those fears. the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes produced far more material concessions on gen-AI-based immseration for workers facing precarity than any amount of furious social media ludditism has

[seohabibi]

Explore the cutting-edge developments reshaping the SEO landscape in 2024. From AI advancements to evolving search algorithms, discover the trends that will redefine how businesses approach their online presence. Stay ahead of the curve with insights into the future of SEO.

[feminist-space]

"A funny thing happened on the way to the enshittocene: Google – which astonished the world when it reinvented search, blowing Altavista and Yahoo out of the water with a search tool that seemed magic – suddenly turned into a pile of shit.

Google's search results are terrible. The top of the page is dominated by spam, scams, and ads. A surprising number of those ads are scams. Sometimes, these are high-stakes scams played out by well-resourced adversaries who stand to make a fortune by tricking Google[...]

Google operates one of the world's most consequential security system – The Algorithm (TM) – in total secrecy. We're not allowed to know how Google's ranking system works, what its criteria are, or even when it changes: "If we told you that, the spammers would win."

Well, they kept it a secret, and the spammers won anyway.

...

Some of the biggest, most powerful, most trusted publications in the world have a side-hustle in quietly producing SEO-friendly "10 Best ___________ of 2024" lists: Rolling Stone, Forbes, US News and Report, CNN, New York Magazine, CNN, CNET, Tom's Guide, and more.

Google literally has one job: to detect this kind of thing and crush it. The deal we made with Google was, "You monopolize search and use your monopoly rents to ensure that we never, ever try another search engine. In return, you will somehow distinguish between low-effort, useless nonsense and good information. You promised us that if you got to be the unelected, permanent overlord of all information access, you would 'organize the world's information and make it universally accessible and useful.'"

They broke the deal." -Cory Doctorow

Read the whole article: https://pluralistic.net/2024/02/21/im-feeling-unlucky/#not-up-to-the-task

[mostlysignssomeportents]

Google reneged on the monopolistic bargain

I'm on tour with my new novel The Bezzle! Catch me TONIGHT in SALT LAKE CITY (Feb 21, Weller Book Works) and TOMORROW in SAN DIEGO (Feb 22, Mysterious Galaxy). After that, it's LA, Seattle, Portland, Phoenix and more!

A funny thing happened on the way to the enshittocene: Google – which astonished the world when it reinvented search, blowing Altavista and Yahoo out of the water with a search tool that seemed magic – suddenly turned into a pile of shit.

Google's search results are terrible. The top of the page is dominated by spam, scams, and ads. A surprising number of those ads are scams. Sometimes, these are high-stakes scams played out by well-resourced adversaries who stand to make a fortune by tricking Google:

https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/tech-news/phone-numbers-airlines-listed-google-directed-scammers-rcna94766

But often these scams are perpetrated by petty grifters who are making a couple bucks at this. These aren't hyper-resourced, sophisticated attackers. They're the SEO equivalent of script kiddies, and they're running circles around Google:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/02/24/passive-income/#swiss-cheese-security

Google search is empirically worsening. The SEO industry spends every hour that god sends trying to figure out how to sleaze their way to the top of the search results, and even if Google defeats 99% of these attempts, the 1% that squeak through end up dominating the results page for any consequential query:

https://downloads.webis.de/publications/papers/bevendorff_2024a.pdf

Google insists that this isn't true, and if it is true, it's not their fault because the bad guys out there are so numerous, dedicated and inventive that Google can't help but be overwhelmed by them:

https://searchengineland.com/is-google-search-getting-worse-389658

It wasn't supposed to be this way. Google has long maintained that its scale is the only thing that keeps us safe from the scammers and spammers who would otherwise overwhelm any lesser-resourced defender. That's why it was so imperative that they pursue such aggressive growth, buying up hundreds of companies and integrating their products with search so that every mobile device, every ad, every video, every website, had one of Google's tendrils in it.

This is the argument that Google's defenders have put forward in their messaging on the long-overdue antitrust case against Google, where we learned that Google is spending $26b/year to make sure you never try another search engine:

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-10-27/google-paid-26-3-billion-to-be-default-search-engine-in-2021

Google, we were told, had achieved such intense scale that the normal laws of commercial and technological physics no longer applied. Take security: it's an iron law that "there is no security in obscurity." A system that is only secure when its adversaries don't understand how it works is not a secure system. As Bruce Schneier says, "anyone can design a security system that they themselves can't break. That doesn't mean it works – just that it works for people stupider than them."

And yet, Google operates one of the world's most consequential security system – The Algorithm (TM) – in total secrecy. We're not allowed to know how Google's ranking system works, what its criteria are, or even when it changes: "If we told you that, the spammers would win."

Well, they kept it a secret, and the spammers won anyway.

A viral post by Housefresh – who review air purifiers – describes how Google's algorithmic failures, which send the worst sites to the top of the heap, have made it impossible for high-quality review sites to compete:

https://housefresh.com/david-vs-digital-goliaths/

You've doubtless encountered these bad review sites. Search for "Best ______ 2024" and the results are a series of near-identical lists, strewn with Amazon affiliate links. Google has endlessly tinkered with its guidelines and algorithmic weights for review sites, and none of it has made a difference. For example, when Google instituted a policy that reviewers should "discuss the benefits and drawbacks of something, based on your own original research," sites that had previously regurgitated the same lists of the same top ten Amazon bestsellers "peppered their pages with references to a ‘rigorous testing process,’ their ‘lab team,’ subject matter experts ‘they collaborated with,’ and complicated methodologies that seem impressive at a cursory look."

But these grandiose claims – like the 67 air purifiers supposedly tested in Better Homes and Gardens's Des Moines lab – result in zero in-depth reviews and no published data. Moreover, these claims to rigorous testing materialized within a few days of Google changing its search ranking and said that high rankings would be reserved for sites that did testing.

Most damning of all is how the Better Homes and Gardens top air purifiers perform in comparison to the – extensively documented – tests performed by Housefresh: "plagued by high-priced and underperforming units, Amazon bestsellers with dubious origins (that also underperform), and even subpar devices from companies that market their products with phrases like ‘the Tesla of air purifiers.’"

One of the top ranked items on BH&G comes from Molekule, a company that filed for bankruptcy after being sued for false advertising. The model BH&G chose was ranked "the worst air purifier tested" by Wirecutter and "not living up to the hype" by Consumer Reports. Either BH&G's rigorous testing process is a fiction that they infused their site with in response to a Google policy change, or BH&G absolutely sucks at rigorous testing.

BH&G's competitors commit the same sins – literally, the exact same sins. Real Simple's reviews list the same photographer and the photos seem to have been taken in the same place. They also list the same person as their "expert." Real Simple has the same corporate parent as BH&G: Dotdash Meredith. As Housefresh shows, there's a lot of Dotdash Meredith review photos that seem to have been taken in the same place, by the same person.

But the competitors of these magazines are no better. Buzzfeed lists 22 air purifiers, including that crapgadget from Molekule. Their "methodology" is to include screenshots of Amazon reviews.

A lot of the top ranked sites for air purifiers are once-great magazines that have been bought and enshittified by private equity giants, like Popular Science, which began as a magazine in 1872 and became a shambling zombie in 2023, after its PE owners North Equity LLC decided its googlejuice was worth more than its integrity and turned it into a metastatic chumbox of shitty affiliate-link SEO-bait. As Housefresh points out, the marketing team that runs PopSci makes a lot of hay out of the 150 years of trust that went into the magazine, but the actual reviews are thin anaecdotes, unbacked by even the pretense of empiricism (oh, and they loooove Molekule).

Some of the biggest, most powerful, most trusted publications in the world have a side-hustle in quietly producing SEO-friendly "10 Best ___________ of 2024" lists: Rolling Stone, Forbes, US News and Report, CNN, New York Magazine, CNN, CNET, Tom's Guide, and more.

Google literally has one job: to detect this kind of thing and crush it. The deal we made with Google was, "You monopolize search and use your monopoly rents to ensure that we never, ever try another search engine. In return, you will somehow distinguish between low-effort, useless nonsense and good information. You promised us that if you got to be the unelected, permanent overlord of all information access, you would 'organize the world's information and make it universally accessible and useful.'"

They broke the deal.

Companies like CNET used to do real, rigorous product reviews. As Housefresh points out, CNET once bought an entire smart home and used it to test products. Then Red Ventures bought CNET and bet that they could sell the house, switch to vibes-based reviewing, and that Google wouldn't even notice. They were right.

https://www.cnet.com/home/smart-home/welcome-to-the-cnet-smart-home/

Google downranks sites that spend money and time on reviews like Housefresh and GearLab, and crams botshittened content mills like BH&G into our eyeballs instead.

In 1558, Thomas Gresham coined (ahem) Gresham's Law: "Bad money drives out good." When counterfeit money circulates in the economy, anyone who gets a dodgy coin spends it as quickly as they can, because the longer you hold it, the greater the likelihood that someone will detect the fraud and the coin will become worthless. Run this system long enough and all the money in circulation is funny money.

An internet run by Google has its own Gresham's Law: bad sites drive out good. It's not just that BH&G can "test" products at a fraction of the cost of Housefresh – through the simple expedient of doing inadequate tests or no tests at all – so they can put a lot more content up that Housefresh. But that alone wouldn't let them drive Housefresh off the front page of Google's search results. For that, BH&G has to mobilize some of their savings from the no test/bad test lab to do real rigorous science: science in defeating Google's security-through-obscurity system, which lets them command the front page despite publishing worse-than-useless nonsense.

Google has lost the spam wars. In response to the plague of botshit clogging Google search results, the company has invested in…making more botshit:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/02/16/tweedledumber/#easily-spooked

Last year, Google did a $70b stock buyback. They also laid off 12,000 staffers (whose salaries could have been funded for 27 years by that stock buyback). They just laid off thousands more employees.

That wasn't the deal. The deal was that Google would get a monopoly, and they would spend their monopoly rents to be so good that you could just click "I'm feeling lucky" and be teleported to the very best response to your query. A company that can't figure out the difference between a scam like Better Homes and Gardens and a rigorous review site like Housefresh should be pouring every spare dime it brings in into fixing this problem. Not buying default search status on every platform so that we never try another search engine: they should be fixing their shit.

When Google admits that it's losing the war to these kack-handed spam-farmers, that's frustrating. When they light $26b/year on fire making sure you don't ever get to try anything else, that's very frustrating. When they vaporize seventy billion dollars on financial engineering and shoot one in ten engineers, that's outrageous.

Google's scale has transcended the laws of business physics: they can sell an ever-degrading product and command an ever-greater share of our economy, even as their incompetence dooms any decent, honest venture to obscurity while providing fertile ground – and endless temptation – for scammers.

If you'd like an essay-formatted version of this post to read or share, here's a link to it on pluralistic.net, my surveillance-free, ad-free, tracker-free blog:

https://pluralistic.net/2024/02/21/im-feeling-unlucky/#not-up-to-the-task