Google Confirms Smaller Core Updates Are Released Without Announcements

Google recently added a significant clarification to its Search Developer documentation: smaller core updates are being rolled out regularly without public announcements. While this isn’t new information, Google has now explicitly stated that these smaller updates can influence search rankings, even if they’re not part of a larger core update.

What You Need to Know

Google now confirms that, in addition to major core updates, it continually releases smaller updates to its search algorithms. These updates are not announced because their impact is typically subtle and not widely noticeable. However, they can still lead to improvements in rankings for content that has been optimized.

Here’s what Google said about this change:

“However, you don’t necessarily have to wait for a major core update to see the effect of your improvements. We’re continually making updates to our search algorithms, including smaller core updates. These updates are not announced because they aren’t widely noticeable, but they are another way that your content can see a rise in position (if you’ve made improvements).”

This addition to the documentation helps clarify that making improvements to your content can yield positive results in Google Search rankings without waiting for the next major core update.

Why It Matters

In August 2019, Danny Sullivan, Google’s former Search Liaison, confirmed that smaller core updates are part of the regular algorithm adjustments. These updates can impact rankings, especially if improvements have been made to content that was previously affected by a larger core update. But since they’re not widely noticeable, they often go unnoticed by the majority of site owners.

In fact, Google’s John Mueller recently shared that a larger core update is currently in the works and is expected to be released soon. While no exact release date was provided, it’s clear that the next major update is on the horizon.

Why You Should Care

The confirmation of smaller, unannounced core updates from Google underscores the importance of continuously optimizing your content. Even without the announcement of a major update, improvements made to your site may still boost your rankings. Stay tuned for a larger core update, and be prepared for more significant changes in the coming weeks.

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