Google’s latest update to its online search engine on Tuesday, April 21 is being called “Mobilegeddon” by the online community. The update gives websites with mobile-friendly web pages priority in the Google search engine. Two changes that went into effect on Tuesday are an increase in mobile user-friendly websites and an increase in relevant app content in search engine results. By use of algorithms that perform calculations, data processing and automated reasoninig, Mobilegeddon has effectively changed the order of online searches. Google first announced the changes on Thursday, Feb. 26.
“When it comes to search on mobile devices, users should get the most relevant and timely results, no matter if the information lives on mobile-friendly web pages or apps. As more people use mobile devices to access the internet, our algorithms have to adapt to these usage patterns. In the past, we’ve made updates to ensure a site is configured properly and viewable on modern devices. We’ve made it easier for users to find mobile-friendly web pages and we’ve introduced App Indexing to surface useful content from apps,” posted Google bloggers Takaki Makino, Chaesang Jung, and Doantam Phan on Google’s Webmaster Central Blog.
Smartphone and tablet consumers will have an easier experience when they conduct online searches on their devices. Google has switched up its algorithm to optimize search results on mobile devices. Webmasters must adapt to the changes lest their web pages suffer significant drops in viewership. Google suggests that webmasters use the Mobile-Friendly Test, Webmaster Tools, and Mobile Usability Report on sites.
Indexed apps are a key factor for internet users conducting searches. Google pulls information from indexed apps to rank searches. Online content that pops up for users is determined by apps they have installed and are currently using. Google has an App Indexing guide on its developer site. Webmasters are encouraged to ask questions by chatting on the Google Webmaster Help Forum.
