To provide relevant results to users, Google is constantly involved with search ranking algorithms. The search engine makes an average of nine algorithmic changes per day, or over 3,200 changes per year, according to Google’s Danny Sullivan.
In 2023, Google made two important updates: core algorithm updates in March and review updates in April. And also announced more helpful content updates and SEO news.
So, let’s see some important gists of the Google Algorithm updates.
- Algorithm Update
This update was announced in March 2023 to address the significant volatility in Google’s search ranking.
- Review Revamp
With the April 2023 update, Google’s review system was affected, emphasizing the need for high-quality, E-A-T-compliant content.
- ChatGPT Competition
As we all know, ChatGPT gained huge popularity for its unique search methods, so it could threaten Google’s ad revenue.
March 2023 Core Algorithm Update
In March 2023, Google launched its Core Algorithm Update, which was one of the most significant updates to date. The update targeted all types of content across all regions and languages, with the aim of promoting and rewarding high-quality and valuable web pages.
Initially, there was limited information available about the update, and marketers had to monitor their metrics closely for the next few weeks. Google warned that the update could impact search rankings, and some marketers did report changes in their numbers.
According to Semrush, the March 2023 update caused more rank volatility than the previous September 2022 update and resulted in higher levels of significant ranking fluctuations.
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April 2023 Review Algorithm Update
Google rolled out an update to its review system on April 12, 2023, which was completed on April 25, 2023. This update has the potential to affect search rankings.
The update pertains to the reviews system that Google uses to evaluate articles, blog posts, web pages, and other types of standalone content that are written with the purpose of recommending, giving an opinion on, or evaluating something.
Reviewing can take many forms. This includes single things, side-by-side comparisons, rank lists, etc. It covers products, media (like movies or video games), services, and businesses.
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Is ChatGPT Hurting Google Search?
Currently, Google Search is facing intense competition. Many users have turned to ChatGPT as a new way to search, and Microsoft has integrated ChatGPT technology into Bing. In response, Google has launched its own AI-powered chatbot named Bard, but it has yet to gain the same level of popularity as OpenAI’s product.
Despite this, Google’s “search and others” revenue showed growth in Q1 of 2023, although not as much as compared to the previous year. More insights are expected in Q2, as OpenAI plans to release its beta browser plugin for ChatGPT Plus subscribers, giving the chatbot access to the open web and up-to-date information.
Google’s August 2023 Core Update rollout is now complete
Google has confirmed that the second core update of the year, the August 2023 Core Update, has finished rolling out after starting on August 22, 2023. It took 16 days to complete, ending on September 7, 2023.
This Google algorithm update is essential for all brands, businesses, and organizations to keep track of Google algorithm updates. These updates can significantly affect how your website performs in search results.
Therefore, it’s important to stay informed about any algorithm updates that may affect your website’s search engine ranking.
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September 2023 Helpful Content Update
Google announced on May 10th that it would be improving its content system to help searchers “find and explore diverse perspectives” more easily. There may be a Perspective filter appearing at the top of search results on Google in the next few months.
This update results in Google giving more weight to the quality and originality of content when ranking it. Pages that are based on first-hand experience or unique expertise are likely to rank higher. This means that SEO professionals should focus on creating content that is original and informative while providing value to the readers.
In September 2023, Google announced Helpful Content updates, which will be finished rolling out in two weeks. It seems that the update has become less strict regarding content that is generated by machines. However, it still cautions against third-party content that is hosted on the website or any of its subdomains.
Let’s see what the September helpful content update is about:
The September helpful content update pays attention to these three areas.
- Loosening the guidance on machine-generated content
- Hosting third-party content on subdomains (or on main domain)
- When your website experiences a drop in traffic due to a Helpful Content update, it’s important to have additional guidance on what you can do to restore your traffic.
Summary
Google is rolling out multiple algorithm updates throughout 2023, which could have a significant impact on unprepared websites. These updates help your website rank higher in the search results, so make sure that you keep yourself updated with all the new algorithms.
FAQ
1. What is the Google update for May 2023?
Google may have updated its search ranking algorithm on May 10–11, 2023, causing unusual spikes in website rankings, according to tracking tools.
2. What is the Google algorithm update for April 2023?
In April 2023, Google gave a review update. It updated its product review system.
3. How will you rank on Google in 2023?
To rank your website or business in the search engines, you have to follow some important steps. You can see these steps here:
- Improve your on-site SEO
- Monitor your technical SEO
- Match your content to search intent
- Find even more keywords to target
- Publish insanely high-quality content
4. What is the latest SEO algorithm?
The latest update from Google was the Core Algorithm Update in March 2023. This update was launched on March 15, 2023.
