Google has announced that it will boost its mobile-friendly search ranking signal at the beginning of May. The algorithm, which launched last year, will be cranked up in a further attempt to strengthen the mobile web experience.
Google Software Engineer, Klemen Kloboves said: “At the beginning of May, we’ll start rolling out an update to mobile SERPs that increases the effect of the ranking signal to help our users find more pages that are relevant and mobile-friendly.
“Intent is a very strong signal – so even if a page with high quality content is not mobile-friendly, it could still rank well if it has great, relevant content. However, if you’ve already made your site mobile-friendly, you will not be impacted by this update.
“Getting good, relevant answers when you search shouldn’t depend on what device you’re using. You should get the best answer possible, whether you’re on a phone, desktop or tablet. Google is attempting to aid this by expanding its infamous search algorithms.”
The launch of Google’s mobile-friendly ranking signal was not quite the “mobilegeddon” many expected it would be. The next update from Google is expected to have even less of an impact, so should not be treated with the same sense of caution.
Webmaster Trends Analyst, Gary Illyes attempted to alleviate any SEO fears by adding: “Ask yourself: was there anything remotely catastrophic about the first mobile-friendly update? If not, then ditch the dramatic name.”
It’s important to remember that if you have already made your site mobile-friendly, you will not be impacted by this update. If you need support with your site, we recommend exploring Google’s mobile-friendly test tool and the Webmaster Mobile Guide, both of which provide strong guidance on how to improve your site.
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