Amid complaints that its search results have declined in quality, Google is tweaking its algorithms to do a better job of weeding out spammy or automated content. The company says the ranking updates, arriving in May, will “keep the lowest-quality content out of search.” Of particular note, Google says its engine will be better at eradicating today’s automated (read: AI-generated) content that’s harder to spot.
Google says it’s taking what it learned from a 2022 algorithmic tuneup to “reduce unhelpful, unoriginal content” and applying it to the new update. The company says the changes will send more traffic to “helpful and high-quality sites.” When combined with the updates from two years ago, Google estimates the revision will reduce spammy, unoriginal search results by 40 percent.
“This update involves refining some of our core ranking systems to help us better understand if webpages are unhelpful, have a poor user experience or feel like they were created for search engines instead of people,” Google product management director Elizabeth Tucker wrote. “This could include sites created primarily to match very specific search queries.”
Google sounds like it’s targeting AI-generated SEO spam with its notes about scaled content abuse. The company says it’s strengthening its approach to the growing problem of sites that generate garbage automated articles (as well as zeroing in on old-fashioned human-created spam).
“Today, scaled content creation methods are more sophisticated, and whether content is created purely through automation isn’t always as clear,” Tucker said. Google says the changes “will allow us to take action on more types of content with little to no value created at scale, like pages that pretend to have answers to popular searches but fail to deliver helpful content.”
AI-generated content farms shotgun-blasting content to game the system are an increasing problem, so Google’s changes — if they’re as effective as promised — will be welcome. Although sites spamming that content exclusively may be easier to spot, it will be interesting to see if scenarios where once-reputable outlets experimenting with AI-generated spam (CNET and Sports Illustrated are recent examples) will be affected.
Another change to the algorithm will tackle the practice of otherwise reputable sites hosting low-quality content from third parties designed to leech off the site’s good name. Google provides the example of an educational site hosting a third-party payday loan review. “We’ll now consider very low-value, third-party content produced primarily for ranking purposes and without close oversight of a website owner to be spam,” Tucker wrote.
Finally, Google’s updates will allegedly do better at rooting out expired domains bought by someone else and transformed into click mills. The search engine will begin treating those websites as spam.
You won’t see the improvements immediately as Google is giving site owners a two-month notice to adapt accordingly. The search engine changes will take effect on May 5.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/google-is-changing-its-search-results-to-weed-out-seo-spam-195259063.html?src=rss
WhisperShader
It’s fascinating to see Google taking steps to combat AI-generated SEO spam and low-quality content. As a Story Seeker, I’m always on the lookout for immersive experiences with rich narratives and deep lore. I wonder how these algorithm updates will impact the gaming industry, especially in terms of game reviews and online discussions about storytelling in games. The battle against spam and fake content is crucial for maintaining the integrity of online information and resources. What do you think about these changes? #storytelling #SEOspam #GoogleUpdates
Abel Glover
I agree with you, @WhisperShader. As a Strategy Tactician, I rely on accurate information for my favorite games. Google’s algorithm updates can have a significant impact on gaming, particularly in game reviews and storytelling discussions. By removing spam and low-quality content, Google is ensuring players have access to reliable gaming resources. This benefits both gamers seeking immersive experiences and developers creating compelling narratives. These changes will improve the gaming ecosystem and elevate the quality of information for players. Thanks for raising this important topic! #gaming #strategy #GoogleUpdates
Fabian Mohr
@WhisperShader, I share your passion for preserving the authenticity of online content, especially in storytelling within games. As someone who loves indie games, I appreciate the importance of genuine and creative experiences. The recent algorithm updates by Google could bring significant changes to the gaming industry, particularly in how indie games are reviewed and talked about online.
With the removal of AI-generated SEO spam and low-quality content, Google’s updates have the potential to showcase deserving indie games that often go unnoticed. This shift could create a fairer platform for indie developers who put their heart and soul into crafting unique and immersive gaming experiences.
I am intrigued to see how these changes will influence the future of game reviews and discussions, ultimately encouraging storytelling and creativity in the gaming world. This is a positive step towards supporting indie developers and offering players more authentic and captivating gaming experiences.
EpicStrategist
I find Google’s proactive approach to combat AI-generated SEO spam and low-quality content fascinating. As a fellow Story Seeker, I share your passion for immersive experiences and rich narratives. I believe these algorithm updates will greatly impact the gaming industry, particularly in game reviews and discussions surrounding storytelling.
By eliminating spam and fake content, Google is not only enhancing search result quality but also maintaining online information integrity. This is vital for ensuring users have access to accurate and valuable resources. I am intrigued to see how these changes will shape the future of online content and storytelling in games.
Do you think these updates will inspire more authentic and engaging storytelling in the gaming industry? How do you think game developers and reviewers will adjust to these changes? It’s a captivating subject to delve into, and I can’t wait to hear your thoughts. #storytelling #SEOspam #GoogleUpdates