Another switch-up in Google’s algorithm has online marketers scrambling to perfect the mobile versions of their website in order to make the mobile sites more likely to show up on search engine results pages.
These changes to mobile-friendly usability factors and app indexing will be in effect as of April 21, 2015, which making it crucial for websites to be mobile-friendly now more than ever before.
Google announced in a blog on Thursday, February 26 that “starting today, we will begin to use information from indexed apps as a factor in ranking for signed-in users who have the app installed.” They first mentioned however the expansion of their use of mobile-friendliness as a ranking signal, stating:
“This change will affect mobile searches in all languages worldwide and will have a significant impact in our search results.” Essentially telling website developers and marketers to get their mobile sites into tip top shape- now. to get ready for the rollout on April 21.
Google also noted that this algorithm change is for the benefit of the user, helping them receive better results on their devices, such as smartphones, tablets, Ipads, etc.
The company said: “Consequently, users will find it easier to get relevant, high quality search results that are optimized for their devices.”
Google shared a “guide to mobile-friendly” sites on their blog discussing the two changes.
The search engine has also created a step-by-step guide to the change that is currently in effect -App Indexing, which they shared on the blog as well.
The link to the guide brings you to the “technical details” section, in which Google states the purpose of App Indexing is:
To offer users who have your app installed the option to open your content within your app from Google Search results.”
The statement is followed by four steps that will guide you through the process of establishing a relationship between your web pages and app deep links.
Those who have questions about changes- mobile-friendly websites or app indexing- have the opportunity to chat in Google’s Webmaster Help Forum.
Want to know how to take full advantage of these changes? The internet technology experts at Liquori Co can help develop and/or jumpstart your company website’s online visibility through a number of technological and Internet marketing tools. Call 877-659-8498 or fill out our short contact form for more information.
