Recent New Google Search Results Tests and Features
Google Search is changing, I've been sharing a lot about what's NEW in Search over on Twitter. Here is summary of what I've noticed recently in just last 3 weeks and YES its a lot!!!
Single Background for Site Favicon, Name, and URL
Google is experimenting with a single background color for the site favicon, name, and URL in search results. This change seems to be aimed at improving the visual coherence of search results.
Google App Search Tabs
In the Google App, searching for a brand name sometimes shows the brand's website at the top, followed by search tabs. This feature is designed to provide quick access to relevant content directly from the search interface.
"Things to Know" Feature
"Things to Know" feature is appearing in Australian search results for mobile users, specifically for "topic name" queries.
Variations of Knowledge Panels
Google is testing several new variations of Knowledge Panels on mobile devices.
People Also Ask (PAA)
Google is testing a new format in the "People Also Ask" section by showing some words in bold. Also for questions that don't have a single answer, Google is testing showing two or more answers.
Sometimes Google is highlighting the question in People Also Ask as bold.
Multisearch
Multisearch is now triggered in Chrome and the Google App for any selected image. When users scroll down after selecting an image, it is automatically available and users can enter text to refine their search.
Search Results Meta information displaying
Google is testing new display formats for search results including larger favicons, bold domain names, dates and site names.
"Top-Quality Store" Badge
A "Top-Quality Store" badge is being tested alongside social links and shop ratings. This badge aims to highlight reputable stores in search results, providing users with more confidence when selecting a store.
Summary
All these recent changes in Search Results may impact both traffic and click through rates (CTRs) that’s why I think that both SEO teams and site owners must be aware of these, in some cases being first mover can be an important thing to leverage a new search feature for gaining more space in search results.
Also I continue to share my insights on Twitter (now X) do follow me there if you want to stay updated with what’s NEW in Search Results or SEO in general.
Another thing is that I’ve posted insights in this blog post over there at LinkedIn as a slides post.