Google will phase out seven structured data features, including Book Actions, Course Info, and Claim Review, to simplify search results. This change, rolling out soon, will not affect rankings but will alter the appearance of search results. The decision is based on low usage of these features, which Google believes do not provide significant value. Websites using these types will see simpler presentations, but can still use the markups for other purposes.
Google Search supports loyalty programs in Organization markup and loyalty benefits in Product markup, helping businesses show loyalty features in product search results. Adding this data makes businesses eligible to display benefits like discounts or points. It's useful for those without Merchant Center accounts, which also supports loyalty programs. Markup can be tested with the Rich Results Test tool for validity.
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Google advises site owners to focus on unique, valuable content that meets visitors' needs for success in AI search. They emphasize good page experience, technical accessibility, managing visibility, and accurate structured data. Supporting multimodal content with images and videos is encouraged. Google recommends valuing visit quality over clicks and adapting to evolving user needs as AI search evolves.
Google Search Console API adds hourly data support to the Search Analytics API, allowing access to up to 10 days of hourly breakdowns. This enhancement responds to user requests for better data analysis. Developers can now analyze recent performance trends and compare data across weeks. New features include the HOUR dimension for grouping responses and the HOURLY_ALL dataState for partial data. Feedback from users is welcomed.
Google has renamed the Search Console Shopping tab listings report to the Merchant opportunities report. This report provides recommendations for improving online shop visibility on Google, now including payment methods and store ratings. Users can view suggestions by linking their Merchant Center account. Adding store information can enhance product displays and assist customers during their shopping experience.
Google has launched the March 2025 core update to Search, the first major algorithm update of the year, expected to take about two weeks to complete. This update aims to improve the relevance of search results and continues Google's efforts to prioritize content from creators. Website owners and SEO professionals should monitor their analytics closely, as core updates often lead to fluctuations in search rankings and organic traffic.
Google has released documentation on merging data from Google Analytics 4 and Search Console to enhance SEO analysis. It describes how Search Console tracks pre-visit activity like impressions and clicks, while Google Analytics captures on-site user behavior. A new Looker Studio dashboard template helps marketers visualize and compare data. The documentation also addresses data discrepancies and offers resources for better integration.
Google is simplifying mobile search results by displaying only the domain in URLs, removing breadcrumbs that were previously part of the site hierarchy feature. This change addresses usability issues on smaller screens where breadcrumbs often get cut off. Desktop search results will still show breadcrumbs, and users do not need to change their breadcrumb markup. Feedback can be provided through LinkedIn or the Google Search Central Community.
Search Central Live will return to São Paulo in 2025, following successful events in 2023 and 2024, and will also visit Recife for the first time. SEOs, content creators, and others interested in Google Search can apply for invites for events on February 18 in São Paulo and February 20 in Recife. Speakers will discuss how Google Search works, AI usage, and measuring SEO efforts. Registration is open until January 23, with invitations sent on January 30.
