Google rolled out its August 2024 core update.
This latest algorithm change aims to boost high-quality content and demote low-value SEO-focused material in search results.
The update was announced on X and detailed on Google’s blog.
Today we released the August 2024 core update. It continues our work to improve the quality of our search results by showing more content that people find genuinely useful and less content that feels like it was made just to perform well on Search.https://t.co/T6Qt0JUoWt
— Google Search Central (@googlesearchc) August 15, 2024
Key Details About The August Core Update
- Google core updates aim to show more content that people find genuinely helpful.
- Core updates target content created primarily to rank well in search results rather than provide value to users.
- Google states this update considers recent feedback from content creators and other stakeholders.
- The company reaffirms its commitment to showcasing high-quality content from diverse sources, including smaller, independent websites.
- The update aims to better reflect positive changes made by websites.
Extended Implementation Period
According to the Google Search Status dashboard, this core update’s full rollout may take up to one month to complete.
This gradual implementation is typical for major updates, allowing time for the changes to propagate across Google’s vast index.
Guidance For Webmasters
In conjunction with the core update, Google shared a link to its help documentation on core updates.
This guidance offers more detailed information for website owners and SEO professionals who may see changes in their search rankings following the update.
Read:
- How To Recover From A Google Update (A Checklist)
- Google’s John Mueller On Website Recovery After Core Updates
Industry Implications
Core updates often shake up SERPs across industries. Google doesn’t offer quick fixes for ranking drops but stresses creating quality, original content.
As the rollout progresses, SEOs and site owners should monitor their metrics and align content with Google’s focus on user value.
SEJ will provide ongoing analysis and expert takes as the August 2024 update’s effects unfold.
Related: Hit By The Core Update? 5 Factors To Consider
Updated Core Update Guidance
In conjunction with the August 2024 core update, Google has revised its guidance on core algorithm updates. The new document provides more actionable advice for website owners and SEO professionals affected by these updates.
Key changes in the revised guidance include:
- New sections on using Search Console to assess traffic drops and evaluate significant position changes.
- Advice on making content improvements, emphasizing substantive changes over quick fixes.
- Expectations for the time required to see ranking changes after implementing improvements.
- Removal of some explanatory content about the nature of core updates.
For a detailed breakdown of the changes in Google’s core update guidance, see our article: Google Revises Core Update Guidance: What’s Changed?
New: Unrelated Search Ranking Glitch
While the August 2024 core update continues to roll out, Google has confirmed a separate issue affecting search rankings. This glitch is unrelated to the core update.
Google has identified the root cause and is actively working on a fix. The company expects to provide an update within 12 hours. SEJ is covering this developing story with live updates.
