With data leaks from Google and the removal of a feature, here is everything you need to know about SEO this past week.
SEO
Google confirms documents have leaked
Documents have been leaked revealing how Google tracks user data such as clicks and browsing activity. These have now been confirmed to be real by Google.
Historically, Google has always been tight-lipped with information surrounding its algorithms whilst still trying to guide SEO experts.
Google will now most likely be even more guarded on what information it is giving to people, and this will make its algorithm even more cryptic than it currently is, especially in the immediate aftermath.
Google has stressed the importance of not drawing conclusions from the leaked documents, as the information could be outdated, incomplete and doesn’t provide full context.
Chat option in Google
Google will soon be removing the chat and call history features on all Google Business profiles in July.
It was a simple and convenient way for you to quickly contact businesses that were listed on Google, but it proved to be unpopular. In fact, there’s a good chance you’ve never used it.
We can’t see this impacting many businesses as it was a largely unused feature, however, it solidifies how crucial it is to have a strong and functional contact form embedded onto your website.
Social Media
Social media professionals rejoice! An extremely quiet week for social updates once again, which can only mean big updates are looming… Here’s a handful of updates that may be of importance.
Youtube
Over the past eight months, YouTube has been testing in-app games with a handful of users, but it has now launched these games more widely in the US, UK, Canada and Australia.
There are 75 basic games in the app right now, like chess, Cut the Rope and Angry Birds.
A YouTube spokesperson said: “Playables are a fun, interactive way to experience YouTube, with lightweight, entertaining games like Angry Birds Showdown, Words of Wonders, Cut the Rope, Tomb of the Mask, Trivia Crack and so many more that you can play right now.”
TikTok
Dashboard for creators
Creators will be able to manage all areas of their TikTok account in TikTok’s newly launched dashboard.
New features include deeper insights into your performance along with a consolidation of new growth opportunities tailored to you, to ensure you’re making the most out of your creator account.
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