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Google changes call lead charging policy for Local Services Ads
Google has informed Local Services Ads customers that the charging policy for call leads will change starting October 1, 2026. The major change is…
Google tests new loading animation for sponsored ads on mobile
Google is testing a new animation for sponsored ads on mobile. When a user searches for something, the sponsored results now show a loading…
Bing tests bold https in sponsored result URLs
Bing is testing bold URLs for sponsored results, though the entire URL isn’t bold just the “https” portion appears in bold. Previously, Bing tested…
Google Says AI Search Responses Don’t Require Special Optimization
A user asked John Mueller a question about GEO on Bluesky: are there any industries where GEO isn’t required? The user, @galloni.net, cited examples…
Google expands AI Max for search campaigns
Google is expanding AI Max for Search campaigns, giving advertisers new tools to test changes to budgets, ROI targets, and campaign settings before actually…
Search Engine Watch is back: a new independent chapter begins
Thirty years after a webmaster’s question became Search Engine Watch, the publication is under new independent ownership. Here is what we owe its history,…
Google Search Console owners receive emails about new account owners
Google Search Console owners have been receiving emails from Google notifying them of a new owner on their Search Console accounts. Barry Schwartz received…
Google Merchant Center warns advertisers about image size requirements
Google has been sending emails to Merchant Center advertisers about a change coming to product image requirements. Starting January 31, 2027, Google will disapprove…
Is Google changing its homepage buttons again?
Google appears to be making more changes to its homepage design. A couple of weeks ago, we covered Google adding new buttons below the…
6 best SEO courses that are actually worth taking in 2026
Search Engine Watch was comparing online SEO training options back in 2008. At the time, paying roughly $150 for a beginner course could be…