Google has recently confirmed that it is experiencing an issue with its Search rankings, which is affecting a significant number of search results across the platform. The company has assured users that they have identified the root cause of the problem and are actively working on a fix. Importantly, Google clarified that this glitch is unrelated to the ongoing August 2024 core update.
On a social media platform, Google addressed the issue, stating, "There is an ongoing issue with ranking in Google Search that's affecting a large number of search results. We've identified the root cause. This issue is unrelated to the ongoing core update rollout announced yesterday. We're working on a fix."
Google was quick to clarify that the search rankings issue is not connected to the 'August 2024 core' update that is currently being rolled out. This update, which began its rollout recently, is expected to take approximately a month to fully implement. The core update aims to enhance the quality of search results by prioritizing genuinely useful content, particularly from small and independent publishers.
Google elaborated on the core update in a statement, saying, "We launched our August 2024 core update to Google Search to improve the quality of our search results by showing more genuinely useful content and less content designed solely to perform well on Search." The tech giant emphasized that this update reflects feedback from creators and users collected over the past few months.
The primary goal of the August 2024 core update is to connect users with high-quality sites, including those run by small or independent creators, who offer original and relevant content. Google has indicated that this focus will continue to be a priority in future updates.
Following the rollout of the August 2024 core update, many users and SEO experts have reported noticeable volatility in Google Search rankings. Such fluctuations are not uncommon during core updates as the new algorithm adjustments take effect, and search rankings stabilize over time.
In addition to addressing the current search rankings issue, Google has also been expanding its suite of features. The company recently introduced its 'AI Overviews' feature to six new countries, including India. In India, the feature will be available in both English and Hindi, catering to the country's vast multilingual population.
According to a blog post by Google, the 'AI Overviews' feature allows users to seamlessly switch between English and Hindi search results using a convenient language toggle button. Additionally, the feature includes a 'Listen' button that enables users to hear responses through Text-To-Speech technology, further enhancing the accessibility of search results.
Google is also planning to introduce more features that have proven successful in its Search Labs experiments, continuing its efforts to improve the user experience.
As Google works diligently to resolve the ongoing search rankings glitch, users can expect the company to maintain transparency and provide timely updates. The issue, which has caused noticeable disruptions in search results, is unrelated to the broader 'August 2024 core' update that seeks to improve the overall quality of content surfaced by Google Search. Meanwhile, the introduction of new features like AI Overviews in India underscores Google's commitment to enhancing user experience and making search more accessible to a diverse audience. As these developments unfold, both users and content creators should stay informed to adapt to the evolving search landscape.
Google's swift response to the glitch and its ongoing efforts to innovate highlight the company's dedication to maintaining its role as the leading search engine, ensuring users have access to the most relevant and high-quality information possible.