Google has announced a significant delay in implementing updates to the Merchant Center product data specification. These changes, originally slated for earlier implementation, will now take effect in the first half of 2025.

Key updates postponed to 2025

1. Replacement of Energy Efficiency Attributes:

   • The energy efficiency class attributes will be fully replaced by the more general [certification] attribute.
   • Merchants have until early 2025 to update their product data to avoid disapprovals.

2. Changes in Attribute Usage:

   • The [energy_efficiency_class] attributes will be deprecated in favor of the [certification] attribute.
   • This change aims to comply with updated EU energy efficiency labeling regulations.

3. Modifications to Price and Installment Attributes:

   • In non-LATAM countries, the [price] attribute will no longer be used for down payments when combined with the [installment] attribute.
   • A new [downpayment] sub-attribute will be introduced within the [installment] attribute.

These postponements give merchants additional time to adapt their product data to the new requirements. Google advises sellers to review their products and prepare for these changes well in advance of the 2025 implementation date.