SEL
Jan 23, 2026•Anu Adegbola
Good to Know
Apple Ads adds more ad slots to App Store search results
Key Takeaways
- ●Apple is increasing the number of ad slots available in App Store search results, starting with the UK and Japan, and expected to roll out globally by the end of March.
- ●Advertisers will have to adapt their strategies to compete for visibility on the same search results page due to increased competition for high-intent queries.
- ●The position of ads in the search results will be determined by Apple based on relevance and bid, with performance tracking becoming vital for advertisers to optimize their campaigns.
Why it matters: While the update provides valuable insights into changes in advertising dynamics within the App Store, it is not critical information that directly impacts SEO rankings or search visibility strategies.
Apple AdsApp StoreSearch AdvertisingPPCDigital Marketing
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SEL
Jan 23, 2026•Anu Adegbola
Good to Know
The URL mistake that killed Black Friday ft Nick Handley
Key Takeaways
- ●Nick Handley recounts a serious early-career PPC error that led to ad disapproval during Black Friday, underscoring the importance of accuracy in campaign management.
- ●The incident highlighted the psychological aspect of decision-making during stress, promoting the strategy of taking a moment to breathe and methodically address issues.
- ●Handley now emphasizes a culture of accountability and peer checks in his leadership style to prevent similar mistakes, advocating that understanding foundational knowledge is crucial when using AI tools.
Why it matters: While the article provides valuable insights on management and personal growth from mistakes, it lacks immediate relevance to fundamental changes in SEO practices or tools that are critical for professionals.
PPCMarketing LeadershipError ManagementAI in MarketingPanic Management
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SEL
Jan 23, 2026•Anu Adegbola
Good to Know
Google Ads bug removes notes option for some advertisers
Key Takeaways
- ●A bug in Google Ads is causing the option to add account notes to disappear sporadically, complicating change tracking for advertisers.
- ●Workarounds include clicking on an existing note or accessing the Notes panel from the 'More' menu to add new notes.
- ●The issue has not yet been acknowledged publicly by Google, necessitating alternative methods for documentation until it is resolved.
Why it matters: While the bug affects advertisers' workflow significantly, it doesn't pertain to critical updates affecting rankings or major changes in SEO tools or practices.
Google Adsbug reportadvertiser toolsPPCworkflow management
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SEL
Jan 23, 2026•Anu Adegbola
Good to Know
Google Ads bug blocks edits to Performance Max asset groups
Key Takeaways
- ●A bug in Google Ads is preventing advertisers from editing Performance Max (PMAX) asset groups, with many encountering error messages when attempting to save edits.
- ●This issue could lead to outdated creative and messaging in campaigns, ultimately affecting overall performance and efficiency.
- ●Advertisers are advised to use Google Ads Editor as a temporary workaround for making updates until the bug is resolved.
Why it matters: While the bug affects advertisers and requires attention, it does not constitute a critical issue that directly impacts SEO rankings or algorithm changes.
Google AdsPerformance MaxPPCAdvertisingAd Management
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SEL
Jan 23, 2026•Anu Adegbola
Good to Know
TikTok launches U.S.-controlled joint venture to meet national security rules
Key Takeaways
- ●TikTok has established a U.S.-controlled joint venture, TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC, to comply with national security requirements and ensure continued operation for American users.
- ●The new entity is responsible for U.S. user data, content moderation, and algorithm security, significantly reducing foreign influence over these aspects.
- ●This arrangement is crucial for advertisers and content creators as it could influence how foreign-owned tech is regulated in the U.S. and may determine TikTok's long-term presence in the market.
Why it matters: While the joint venture addresses significant national security concerns and could impact regulation, it does not directly influence search engine algorithms or critical SEO tools.
TikTokNational SecurityData PrivacyContent ModerationTech Regulation
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SEJ
Jan 23, 2026•Marie Haynes
Important
User Data Is Important In Google Search, Per Liz Reid’s DOJ Filing via @sejournal, @marie_haynes
Key Takeaways
- ●Google's appeal in the DOJ vs. Google trial revolves around the company's resistance to sharing proprietary data, which they assert is vital for maintaining their competitive edge.
- ●Indexed pages utilize proprietary annotations to identify spam and freshness, indicating their importance in combating spam and optimizing search ranking.
- ●User data plays a crucial role in Google's ranking systems, particularly in the functioning of the Glue system and RankEmbed BERT, which rely on real user interactions to enhance search results.
Why it matters: This article discusses proprietary information from Google that could impact SEO strategies, making it an important update for professionals following competitive practices in search.
GoogleSEOUser DataSpam SignalsRankEmbed BERT
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SEJ
Jan 23, 2026•Matt G. Southern
Important
SEO Pulse: Google’s AI Mode Gets Personal, AI Bots Blocked, Domains Matter in Search via @sejournal, @MattGSouthern
Key Takeaways
- ●Google has launched Personal Intelligence, connecting Gmail and Google Photos to AI Mode for personalized search responses.
- ●This could alter query behaviors, leading to shorter and more ambiguous searches, impacting targeting of long-tail keywords.
- ●Bots used for training are being blocked more frequently, whereas search and assistant bots are expanding their accessibility, which could affect site visibility.
Why it matters: The article discusses significant changes in Google's AI capabilities and bot access trends that could impact search behavior and SEO strategies.
AI ModeGoogle SearchPersonalizationSEO TrendsCrawling Bots
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SEJ
Jan 23, 2026•Brooke Osmundson
Good to Know
PPC Pulse: Google’s Podcast Launch, Demand Gen, ChatGPT Ads via @sejournal, @brookeosmundson
Key Takeaways
- ●Google has launched a podcast titled 'Ads Decoded' aimed at providing advertisers with deeper insights into platform updates and AI-powered features, hosted by Google Ads Liaison Ginny Marvin.
- ●The podcast serves as a new communication channel that allows Google product managers to explain updates and answer community questions in a more detailed and nuanced way than traditional formats.
- ●Additionally, Google has introduced new features for Demand Gen campaigns, including Shoppable CTV, aimed at enhancing customer engagement and increasing conversions.
Why it matters: While the podcast and new features provide valuable insights and tools for advertisers, they do not represent critical updates that significantly impact core ranking factors or technical SEO vulnerabilities.
Google AdsPPC MarketingPodcastDemand GenerationAdvertising Features
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SEL
Jan 23, 2026•Toby Bartlett
Good to Know
A smarter way to approach AI prompting
Key Takeaways
- ●Rubric-based prompting can significantly reduce hallucinations in AI outputs by establishing clear decision-making processes for AI when faced with uncertainty or lack of data.
- ●Fluency in AI responses often leads to confident inaccuracies; using rubrics encourages restraint and prevents the generation of misleading content.
- ●Implementing specific criteria through rubrics not only enhances trustworthiness and factual reliability in AI-assisted workflows but also sets necessary boundaries for AI's response generation.
Why it matters: While the article provides valuable insights on improving AI reporting and reducing inaccuracies, it does not relate to critical updates or changes that fundamentally affect SEO practices.
AI promptinghallucinationsSEO toolscontent generationrubrics
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SEL
Jan 23, 2026•Lars Maat
Important
Agentic AI and vibe coding: The next evolution of PPC management
Key Takeaways
- ●Agentic AI is reshaping PPC management by enabling more autonomous decision-making in campaign optimization, improving real-time adjustments.
- ●Google's Agentic Ads Advisor integrates advanced AI capabilities for advertisers to enhance campaign performance through insights and proactive management.
- ●Marketers will need to adapt their focus on strategy, creative direction, and marketing fundamentals as AI takes over more operational tasks within PPC.
Why it matters: The article discusses significant advancements in PPC management through AI, which are important for marketers to understand, but it does not cover urgent algorithmic changes or critical vulnerabilities.
PPC ManagementAgentic AIGoogle AdsDigital MarketingAutomation
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SEJ
Jan 23, 2026•Shelley Walsh
Good to Know
45 Best Subreddits For Marketing & SEO Professionals via @sejournal, @theshelleywalsh
Key Takeaways
- ●Reddit has become a significant platform for SEO professionals, offering valuable insights and discussions across various subreddits.
- ●There are multiple tailored subreddits available for SEO, marketing, and technology discussions, which can enhance brand awareness and provide community support.
- ●Marketers should approach Reddit carefully to avoid spam and self-promotion, focusing instead on engagement with the community.
Why it matters: While the information is useful for marketers exploring Reddit's potential for brand awareness, it does not directly impact critical SEO practices or search engine algorithms.
SEOReddit MarketingSubredditsDigital MarketingCommunity Engagement
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SEJ
Jan 23, 2026•Roger Montti
CRITICAL
BuddyPress WordPress Vulnerability May Impact Up To 100,000 Sites via @sejournal, @martinibuster
Key Takeaways
- ●A high-severity security vulnerability has been discovered in the BuddyPress plugin for WordPress, which affects all versions up to 14.3.3 and can be exploited by unauthenticated attackers.
- ●The vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary shortcodes, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive site features or modification of site content.
- ●Users are advised to update to BuddyPress version 14.3.4 or newer to mitigate the security risk.
Why it matters: The article discusses a critical security vulnerability in a widely-used WordPress plugin that could significantly impact site integrity and SEO performance if not addressed.
BuddyPressWordPress SecurityPlugin VulnerabilitySEO ToolsCybersecurity
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SEJ
Jan 23, 2026•Matt G. Southern
Good to Know
TikTok US Deal Closes After Years Of Regulatory Uncertainty via @sejournal, @MattGSouthern
Key Takeaways
- ●The U.S. and China have finalized a deal for TikTok’s U.S. operations to be managed by a consortium led by Oracle and Silver Lake, reducing regulatory uncertainty for marketers.
- ●TikTok's new governance structure includes a seven-member board with an American majority to oversee data protection, content moderation, and algorithm security.
- ●The finalized deal is expected to impact how TikTok handles data practices and content policies, which is crucial for marketers leveraging the platform for advertising.
Why it matters: While the deal's resolution impacts marketing strategies on TikTok, it does not directly involve critical algorithm updates or fundamental changes to SEO practices.
TikTokUS-China RelationsDigital MarketingData ProtectionAlgorithm Management
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SEL
Jan 23, 2026•Anu Adegbola
CRITICAL
Google: Forced syndication would permanently expose its ad systems
Key Takeaways
- ●Google is urging a federal judge to delay antitrust remedies that would force the syndication of its ads, warning this could permanently expose its ad technology and lead to increased click fraud.
- ●The affidavit highlights that forced syndication may reduce the quality of ad targeting and relevance, potentially resulting in lower conversion rates for advertisers and greater pricing uncertainty.
- ●Google emphasizes the irreversibility of harm if its ad systems are compromised, arguing that the long-term effects could damage trust and lead to financial losses for advertisers.
Why it matters: The article discusses a significant potential change in Google's ad systems due to a court ruling, which could critically affect SEO professionals and advertisers across the industry.
Googleads syndicationantitrustclick fraudadvertising
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SEL
Jan 22, 2026•Danny Goodwin
CRITICAL
Google outlines risks of exposing its search index, rankings, and live results
Key Takeaways
- ●Google warns that court-ordered sharing of its search index and ranking data could expose proprietary systems, enabling competitors to bypass Google's indexing and analysis efforts.
- ●The release of Google's spam scores and user-side search data could significantly weaken its ability to combat spam and maintain user safety, leading to an influx of low-quality content in search results.
- ●Elizabeth Reid's affidavit highlights the long-term investment and engineering efforts that have gone into developing Google's search index, emphasizing the risks posed by mandated data disclosures.
Why it matters: This article discusses critical legal implications regarding Google's data that affect SEO practices, user experience, and the integrity of search results.
GoogleSearch IndexAntitrustSpam PreventionSEO
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SEL
Jan 22, 2026•Anu Adegbola
Good to Know
Google adds cross-campaign testing with new Mix Experiments beta
Key Takeaways
- ●Google has introduced Campaign Mix Experiments (beta), allowing advertisers to test various campaign types and budgets together in one experiment.
- ●Advertisers can create up to five experiment arms, customize traffic splits, and test different budget allocations, bidding strategies, and campaign interactions.
- ●This development emphasizes the importance of understanding how multiple campaigns perform collectively rather than in isolation, promoting more informed financial decisions in advertising.
Why it matters: While the new features for Google Ads enhance campaign management and testing, they do not have a direct and immediate impact on core SEO practices or broader algorithm changes.
Google AdsCampaign TestingPPCMarketing StrategyAdvertising Tools
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SEL
Jan 22, 2026•Anu Adegbola
Good to Know
Google’s Demand Gen gets more shoppable — and more measurable
Key Takeaways
- ●Google's Demand Gen updates enhance video ads, enabling direct shopping and improved measurement across YouTube and Google.
- ●Shoppable CTV allows consumers to buy products directly from YouTube ads, while attributed branded searches provide insights into campaign effectiveness.
- ●Travel feeds connect with the Hotel Center to create dynamic ads, offering real-time pricing and availability, thereby optimizing ad performance.
Why it matters: The article discusses updates to Google's Demand Gen features which are useful for PPC advertisers, but do not directly relate to critical SEO algorithm changes or vulnerabilities.
Google Demand GenPPC AdvertisingShoppable AdsVideo MarketingTravel Marketing
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SEJ
Jan 22, 2026•Roger Montti
CRITICAL
10Web WordPress Photo Gallery Plugin Vulnerability via @sejournal, @martinibuster
Key Takeaways
- ●A security vulnerability in the Photo Gallery by 10Web plugin allows unauthenticated users to delete image comments, affecting over 200,000 installations.
- ●The flaw is due to a missing capability check in the delete_comment() function, enabling unauthorized data modification on sites that utilize the comments feature.
- ●Site owners are advised to update the plugin to version 1.8.37 or later to mitigate the risk, or alternatively, disable the comments feature until a patch can be applied.
Why it matters: The article discusses a critical security vulnerability in a widely-used WordPress plugin that could lead to unauthorized data modification, necessitating immediate action from site owners.
WordPress SecurityPlugin VulnerabilityPhoto Gallery by 10WebData ProtectionCybersecurity
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SEJ
Jan 22, 2026•Matt G. Southern
Important
Google Launches Personal Intelligence In AI Mode via @sejournal, @MattGSouthern
Key Takeaways
- ●Google is introducing Personal Intelligence, a new feature that connects users' Gmail and Google Photos to AI Mode in Search for personalized responses.
- ●The feature is currently in a Labs rollout for AI Pro and AI Ultra subscribers and aims to enhance search by using individual context from users' data.
- ●Implications for SEO include potential shifts in content visibility, as personalized responses may address queries without directing users to external content sites.
Why it matters: The introduction of Personal Intelligence by Google represents a significant change in how search personalization may affect possible content visibility and traffic for publishers.
GoogleSEOPersonal IntelligenceAI ModeSearch Engine Updates
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SEL
Jan 22, 2026•Barry Schwartz
Important
Google brings Personal Intelligence to AI Mode in Google Search
Key Takeaways
- ●Google has rolled out a new Personal Intelligence feature in AI Mode for Google AI Pro and Ultra subscribers, connecting Google services like Gmail and Photos for personalized search results.
- ●Users can opt in to this Labs experiment to experience personalized search capabilities that may eventually become a standard feature in Google Search.
- ●As search results become increasingly personalized, tracking and measuring website citations for different users may become more challenging for SEO professionals.
Why it matters: This article discusses a significant update to Google's search capabilities that could impact how SEO professionals approach personalization and search ranking.
Google SearchAI FeaturesPersonalized SearchSearch Engine UpdatesSEO Strategies
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SEJ
Jan 22, 2026•Roger Montti
Important
A Breakdown Of Microsoft’s Guide To AEO & GEO via @sejournal, @martinibuster
Key Takeaways
- ●Microsoft's guide emphasizes the shift from traditional SEO to focusing on Agentic Engine Optimization (AEO) and Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) for success in AI-driven search and shopping.
- ●AEO aims to improve content clarity and retrieval for AI, while GEO enhances trust and persuasiveness, requiring collaboration across various organizational teams.
- ●The guide indicates that while SEO remains foundational, the new competition lies in how well content can influence AI recommendations rather than just driving clicks.
Why it matters: This article provides important insights on the emerging concepts of AEO and GEO, which are critical for SEO professionals adapting to AI-driven search environments.
AEOGEOAI SearchSEO EvolutionMicrosoft Guidelines
Read Source ![What 75 SEO thought leaders reveal about volatility in the GEO debate [Research]](https://searchengineland.com/wp-content/seloads/2026/01/What-75-AI-SEO-influencers-reveal-about-the-GEO-debate-on-LinkedIn-Research.png)
SEL
Jan 22, 2026•Kelsey Libert
Good to Know
What 75 SEO thought leaders reveal about volatility in the GEO debate [Research]
Key Takeaways
- ●The article analyzes the frequency and sentiment of AI-related SEO discussions among 75 thought leaders on LinkedIn, highlighting volatility in terminology usage surrounding the GEO debate.
- ●Despite the rising discourse around AI-driven search terms, traditional 'SEO' remains the most represented term in LinkedIn headlines among industry leaders.
- ●The article emphasizes the importance of creating well-structured content hubs and off-site authority signals to strengthen brand trust and improve search ranking consistency.
Why it matters: The article provides insights into current trends and sentiment in AI-related SEO, which is good to know but does not present critical updates or changes that directly impact SEO rankings.
AI SEOSEO TrendsContent StrategyVolatility in SEOGEO Debate
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SEJ
Jan 22, 2026•Duane Forrester
Important
When Platforms Say ‘Don’t Optimize,’ Smart Teams Run Experiments via @sejournal, @DuaneForrester
Key Takeaways
- ●The article emphasizes the importance of experimentation and measurement in understanding the impact of large language models (LLMs) on SEO and user interactions with content.
- ●It argues that the current SEO guidance may overlook the complexities of modern search experiences, where user behavior and content consumption are changing.
- ●Professionals are encouraged to conduct their own tests and share findings to contribute to a more substantial understanding of the evolving SEO landscape.
Why it matters: The article presents insights on the impact of LLMs on SEO practices and encourages practical experimentation, making it a valuable read for SEO professionals navigating evolving search dynamics.
SEOLLMSearch AlgorithmsContent StrategyDigital Marketing
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SEJ
Jan 22, 2026•Roger Montti
Good to Know
Five Things To Do That Will Increase Authoritativeness And Earn Links via @sejournal, @martinibuster
Key Takeaways
- ●Establish your authoritativeness by showcasing awards, media mentions, and publications to inspire trust in outreach emails.
- ●Utilize a concise 'bona fides' statement early in your communications to improve response rates for link-building efforts.
- ●Consider publishing articles in both online and offline reputable outlets to enhance credibility and increase chances of obtaining links.
Why it matters: While the article provides useful tactics for link building, it does not address recent major updates or vital changes in SEO practices.
Link BuildingOutreach StrategyAuthority SignalsSEO TacticsContent Marketing
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SEJ
Jan 22, 2026•Matt G. Southern
Good to Know
56% Of CEOs Report No Revenue Gains From AI: PwC Survey via @sejournal, @MattGSouthern
Key Takeaways
- ●56% of CEOs report no financial returns from AI investments in the past year, indicating a slow adoption of AI in business.
- ●Only 22% of organizations are applying AI to demand generation, suggesting ongoing challenges in scaling AI for effective customer acquisition.
- ●PwC emphasizes the need for companies to build solid AI foundations before expecting meaningful returns, including strategic roadmaps and responsible AI practices.
Why it matters: While the insights on AI adoption and its impact on revenue are relevant, they do not constitute immediate critical updates or changes to SEO practices.
AI in MarketingCEO InsightsBusiness StrategyPwC SurveyDigital Transformation
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SEL
Jan 22, 2026•Adam Heitzman
Important
How to explain flat traffic when SEO is actually working
Key Takeaways
- ●Flat SEO traffic doesn't indicate failure; successful campaigns may show low traffic but high conversion rates.
- ●AI Overviews significantly reduce click-through rates but allow for brand exposure, making it critical to rethink organic traffic as a primary KPI.
- ●Focus on broader metrics, such as direct traffic and branded search volume, to measure SEO success more accurately.
Why it matters: The article addresses the impact of AI on SEO metrics and emphasizes the need to adapt reporting strategies, making it an important update for SEO professionals.
AI OverviewsSEO MetricsOrganic TrafficStakeholder CommunicationConversion Rates
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SEJ
Jan 22, 2026•Navah Hopkins
Good to Know
Ask A PPC: What Is The PPC Manager’s Role In The AI Era? via @sejournal, @navahf
Key Takeaways
- ●PPC management is evolving as AI automates execution, freeing humans to focus on strategic decision-making and creativity.
- ●Consolidation of PPC campaigns is essential for effective data utilization, allowing AI algorithms to learn and optimize performance.
- ●Data cleanliness is critical; accurate first-party data is necessary for AI-driven platforms to align business goals with ad placements effectively.
Why it matters: While the article discusses important shifts in PPC management due to AI, it does not present critical updates or changes that fundamentally alter SEO techniques or practices.
PPC ManagementAI in MarketingDigital AdvertisingData StrategyKPI Management
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SEL
Jan 22, 2026•Ayisha Yousef
Good to Know
Why Demand Gen works best alongside Performance Max for ecommerce
Key Takeaways
- ●Demand Generation (Demand Gen) campaigns offer greater creative flexibility and audience control compared to Performance Max, making them ideal for eCommerce brands.
- ●Using Demand Gen in conjunction with Performance Max enhances the customer journey by building awareness and interest before users actively seek products.
- ●Advertisers can tailor their creative assets strategically for both campaigns to improve conversions and maintain brand consistency.
Why it matters: While it provides useful insights for PPC strategy, it lacks immediate relevance to broader SEO and algorithmic changes affecting search rankings.
Google AdsPPCDigital MarketingeCommerceAdvertising Strategies
Read Source 
SEJ
Jan 22, 2026•Roger Montti
Important
Shopify Shares More Details On Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP) via @sejournal, @martinibuster
Key Takeaways
- ●Shopify's Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP) enables agentic AI shopping, allowing brands to control how their products are recommended by AI agents based on consumer preferences.
- ●UCP is designed to enhance product discovery beyond traditional advertising and search methods, positioning Shopify as a key player in personalized online commerce.
- ●The introduction of an Agentic plan allows non-Shopify brands to leverage Shopify's infrastructure for product syndication and visibility in AI shopping environments.
Why it matters: The article discusses a significant development in AI and ecommerce, which has implications for how brands may interact with consumers and could impact SEO strategies moving forward.
AI CommerceUniversal Commerce ProtocolShopifyEcommerce InnovationPersonalized Recommendations
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SEJ
Jan 22, 2026•Roger Montti
Important
More Sites Blocking LLM Crawling – Could That Backfire On GEO? via @sejournal, @martinibuster
Key Takeaways
- ●Hostinger's analysis shows that businesses are increasingly blocking AI training systems while allowing AI assistants like ChatGPT to access more websites.
- ●AI assistant crawlers have expanded their reach, with OpenAI’s SearchBot increasing coverage from 52% to 68% of sites, while traditional search engine crawlers' access remains stable.
- ●Blocking AI training bots may limit a business's visibility and control over how information about them is represented in AI outputs, potentially impacting search and discovery.
Why it matters: This article addresses a significant trend in SEO regarding AI access to websites, highlighting the implications for businesses' online visibility and their relationship with AI technologies.
AI in SEOBot CrawlersHostinger AnalysisParametric KnowledgeWeb Crawling Trends
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SEJ
Jan 21, 2026•Matt G. Southern
Important
YouTube CEO Announces AI Creation Tools, In-App Shopping For 2026 via @sejournal, @MattGSouthern
Key Takeaways
- ●YouTube is introducing AI creation tools allowing creators to make Shorts with personal likeness, use text prompts for game creation, and music tools for enhanced content production.
- ●In-app checkout for seamless shopping within YouTube and expanded brand partnership tools are being introduced to increase commerce capabilities on the platform.
- ●New features such as image posts in Shorts and enhanced parental controls reflect YouTube's aim to integrate user engagement and monetization within its ecosystem.
Why it matters: The article discusses new features that significantly enhance creators' capabilities and YouTube's commerce integration, which are important for SEO professionals focused on content strategy and monetization.
YouTubeAI toolse-commerceShortsparental controls
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SEL
Jan 21, 2026•Danny Goodwin
General
Nick LeRoy turns SEO consulting into fundraiser for Minnesota immigrant support
Key Takeaways
- ●Nick LeRoy, an SEO consultant, is offering consulting services in exchange for donations to support Minnesota immigrant families impacted by ICE raids.
- ●He raised over $1,900 in just seven hours through this initiative, highlighting the SEO community's ability to mobilize for social causes.
- ●LeRoy emphasizes that this effort transcends politics, focusing on human rights instead.
Why it matters: The article discusses a personal initiative in the SEO community and does not provide actionable insights or updates relevant to SEO professionals' day-to-day work.
SEOcommunity supportphilanthropyimmigrant rightsfundraising
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SEL
Jan 21, 2026•Anu Adegbola
Good to Know
Meta expands Threads ads to all users globally
Key Takeaways
- ●Meta is expanding ad availability on its Threads app globally, reaching over 400 million users and providing new advertising options for businesses.
- ●Advertisers can utilize advanced formats like video and carousel ads, as well as third-party verification for brand safety.
- ●Early adoption of Threads ads may provide a competitive advantage as the platform continues to grow.
Why it matters: While the article discusses a new advertising feature that is beneficial for marketers, it does not provide critical updates or changes that directly impact SEO professionals or search engine algorithms.
Threads AdsMeta AdvertisingDigital MarketingSocial Media AdsPPC
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SEL
Jan 21, 2026•Danny Goodwin
Important
Same URL in AI Overviews and blue links counts as one Google Search Console impression
Key Takeaways
- ●Google Search Console counts a URL that appears both in an AI Overview and as a blue link on the SERP as a single impression, according to John Mueller.
- ●The consolidation of impressions reflects how Google handles appearances of URLs across different SERP features, maintaining consistency in their reporting.
- ●Understanding this metric is crucial for SEOs as it impacts performance interpretation in the evolving landscape of AI-driven search.
Why it matters: This article provides essential information about how new AI features impact impression counts in Google Search Console, which is critical for SEO performance analysis.
Google Search ConsoleAI OverviewsJohn MuellerSEO metricsSERP features
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SEL
Jan 21, 2026•Anu Adegbola
Good to Know
OpenAI moves on ChatGPT ads with impression-based launch
Key Takeaways
- ●OpenAI is set to introduce a new impression-based advertising model within ChatGPT, moving away from the traditional pay-per-click approach.
- ●The initial rollout is limited, focusing on select advertisers with a commitment of under $1 million, and aims to explore brand-safe, intent-rich ad placements.
- ●Advertisers are urged to participate early to influence future ad formats, pricing, and standards, despite concerns surrounding performance measurement under the pay-per-impression system.
Why it matters: The introduction of impression-based ads in ChatGPT is relevant for digital marketers, but it does not represent a critical update that directly impacts SEO rankings or major search engine policies.
ChatGPTOpenAIAdvertisingPPCDigital Marketing
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SEL
Jan 21, 2026•Anu Adegbola
Good to Know
Google rules out ads in Gemini — for now
Key Takeaways
- ●Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis confirms that there are no current plans to introduce ads in the Gemini AI assistant, prioritizing user trust over monetization.
- ●The refusal to monetize Gemini suggests that advertisers might need to explore ad formats outside Google's ecosystem as competitors begin rolling out ads in conversational AI.
- ●Google's cautious approach to AI assistant monetization aims to maintain unbiased and genuinely helpful user recommendations, positioning it differently from competitors like OpenAI.
Why it matters: The article discusses the implications of Google's decision regarding ads in Gemini, which is relevant for understanding AI trends but not critical for immediate SEO actions.
GoogleAIPPCAdvertisingConversational AI
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SEL
Jan 21, 2026•Frank Olivo
Important
75% of ChatGPT users rely on ‘keywords’ for local services: New data
Key Takeaways
- ●75% of users employ keyword searches when using ChatGPT to find local services, contradicting the belief that conversational prompts dominate.
- ●A notable 45% of ChatGPT sessions for local services involve single prompts, indicating that users are not engaging in extensive back-and-forth conversations.
- ●The data suggests that traditional keyword research and tracking are still relevant for local SEO despite the rise of AI tools.
Why it matters: This article provides significant insights on user behavior regarding local searches in the context of AI usage, which is essential for adapting SEO strategies.
Local SEOChatGPTKeyword ResearchUser BehaviorAI Impact on Search
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SEJ
Jan 21, 2026•Roger Montti
Good to Know
A Little Clarity On SEO, GEO, And AEO via @sejournal, @martinibuster
Key Takeaways
- ●AEO/GEO debates its relevance within the SEO field, with some arguing it should remain a subset of standard SEO.
- ●Key figures in the SEO community suggest that core SEO principles, like crawlability and metadata, remain essential despite shifts towards AI-driven search technologies.
- ●The differences in indexing approaches between traditional SEO and AI search are becoming clearer, with a focus on 'sub-document' processing over whole-page indexing.
Why it matters: While the article discusses emerging trends in SEO related to AI, the insights provided are more about ongoing discussions rather than critical updates affecting the industry immediately.
SEOAEOGEOAI searchRanking factors
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SEJ
Jan 21, 2026•Bill Hunt
Good to Know
Web Governance As A Growth Lever: Building A Center Of Excellence That Actually Works via @sejournal, @billhunt
Key Takeaways
- ●Governance in SEO is essential for aligning teams and strategies, acting as a framework that enables innovation while maintaining accountability.
- ●A successful Center of Excellence (COE) should focus on shared definitions of performance and value, translating corporate objectives into digital guardrails.
- ●The article emphasizes that effective governance promotes responsible autonomy, helping organizations adapt to changing technologies and markets.
Why it matters: While the article discusses important governance concepts relevant to digital strategy and performance, it does not address urgent updates or changes impacting SEO practices directly.
SEO GovernanceCenter of ExcellenceDigital TransformationPerformance ManagementTeam Alignment
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SEJ
Jan 21, 2026•Roger Montti
Good to Know
Wix Introduces Harmony AI Website Builder via @sejournal, @martinibuster
Key Takeaways
- ●Wix launched Wix Harmony, an AI-powered website builder that combines natural language site creation with a visual editor, enhancing the site development process.
- ●The tool features an AI agent, Aria, that allows users to adjust site elements and switch between AI-assisted creation and manual editing seamlessly.
- ●Wix Harmony is designed to produce fully functional websites ready for deployment, integrating essential business features and ensuring compliance with regulations like GDPR.
Why it matters: While the introduction of Wix Harmony is interesting and may improve website creation, it does not directly impact major SEO strategies or recent algorithm changes.
WixAIwebsite developmentSEO toolsdigital marketing
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SEL
Jan 21, 2026•Claudia Tomina
Important
The local SEO gatekeeper: How Google defines your entity
Key Takeaways
- ●Google prioritizes business names and primary categories when determining eligibility for local search results, impacting the visibility of the business in local packs.
- ●For niche queries, Google seeks high-confidence entities with exact matches, while broader searches allow for a variety of related categories.
- ●Understanding how Google's entity recognition works is crucial for businesses, as their name and primary category establish the boundaries of their ranking potential.
Why it matters: The article provides essential insights into how Google determines local search eligibility, which is critical for professionals aiming to optimize their local SEO strategies.
Local SEOGoogle AlgorithmEntity RecognitionBusiness ListingsSEO Strategies
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SEJ
Jan 21, 2026•Sarah Stemen
Good to Know
The 5-Pillar Audit: Diagnosing Strategy Vs. Tactic Failures In A Google Ads Account
Key Takeaways
- ●A successful PPC audit must prioritize strategic alignment of business objectives over tactical adjustments in Google Ads.
- ●Evaluating the offer and pricing viability is crucial, as no tactical optimization can compensate for a poorly positioned or unclear offer.
- ●Understanding real-world buyer behavior and audience intent is essential to ensure that PPC campaigns support actual business goals.
Why it matters: While the insights provided are valuable for PPC professionals, they focus more on tactics and strategy rather than critical updates affecting search rankings or algorithms.
PPC StrategyGoogle AdsPerformance MarketingBusiness AlignmentDigital Advertising
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SEL
Jan 21, 2026•Motoko Hunt
Important
International SEO in 2026: What still works, what no longer does, and why
Key Takeaways
- ●In 2026, traditional international SEO strategies are insufficient; market-scoped URLs reflecting local differences yield better results than mere translations.
- ●While hreflang remains a useful tool, its effectiveness is limited in AI-mediated search environments, necessitating a focus on entity clarity and market differentiation.
- ●SEO professionals must ensure that local content reinforces the entity lineage while distinguishing legitimate local variations to improve visibility in AI-driven search.
Why it matters: The article provides insights into evolving international SEO strategies in response to AI-mediated search, making it crucial for SEO professionals to adapt their practices.
International SEOAI SearchHreflangEntity ClaritySEO Strategy
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SEJ
Jan 21, 2026•Roger Montti
Good to Know
How Recommender Systems Like Google Discover May Work via @sejournal, @martinibuster
Key Takeaways
- ●Google Discover operates as a recommender system, similar to YouTube, utilizing a Two-Tower architecture to efficiently match user interests with content.
- ●The Two-Tower model distinguishes user data and content representations, allowing for rapid retrieval without complex analysis each time a user refreshes their feed.
- ●The concept of 'fresh content' is crucial for Google Discover's algorithm, balancing between recommending popular content and introducing new, lesser-known content.
Why it matters: The article provides insights into the architecture and functioning of Google Discover as a recommender system, which is useful but not critical for the immediate SEO landscape.
Google DiscoverRecommender SystemsSEOAlgorithm InsightsContent Strategy
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SEL
Jan 21, 2026•Editorial Link
Important
How digital marketing agencies are adapting to AI search by Editorial Link
Key Takeaways
- ●Digital marketing agencies are adapting their SEO strategies to address the impact of AI search, focusing on optimizing for AI-driven queries and metrics.
- ●Agencies emphasize the importance of brand authority and recognition over traditional keyword optimization to improve visibility in AI search results.
- ●As AI search technologies grow, agencies are shifting towards listicle placements and enhancing their technical SEO practices to ensure better machine understanding.
Why it matters: The article discusses significant changes in search behavior due to AI technologies and how agencies must adapt their strategies accordingly, marking it as an important update for SEO professionals.
AI SearchDigital MarketingSEO StrategyBrand AuthoritySearch Intent
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SEJ
Jan 21, 2026•Roger Montti
CRITICAL
NotificationX WordPress WooCommerce Plugin Vulnerabilities Impact 40k Sites via @sejournal, @martinibuster
Key Takeaways
- ●A high-severity DOM-based XSS vulnerability has been identified in the NotificationX FOMO plugin for WordPress, affecting over 40,000 websites.
- ●Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to inject malicious JavaScript, potentially hijacking user sessions and redirecting visitors to harmful sites.
- ●Site owners are advised to update the plugin to version 3.2.1 or later immediately to mitigate the risk.
Why it matters: This vulnerability poses a critical risk to numerous websites and can lead to significant security breaches, making it essential for SEO professionals managing affected sites to take immediate action.
WordPresssecurityvulnerabilitypluginXSS
Read Source ![What Profitable Google Ads Look Like in 2026 [Webinar] via @sejournal, @hethr_campbell](https://cdn.searchenginejournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/3-529.png)
SEJ
Jan 21, 2026•Heather Campbell
Good to Know
What Profitable Google Ads Look Like in 2026 [Webinar] via @sejournal, @hethr_campbell
Key Takeaways
- ●Learn how to effectively structure Google Ads accounts to maintain control over ROAS amidst automation.
- ●Discover the best practices for creating high-conversion copy and creatives tailored for Performance Max campaigns.
- ●Understand strategies to transition from keyword-centric approaches to profit-focused objectives in PPC advertising.
Why it matters: While the article provides valuable insights into Google Ads strategies for 2026, it focuses on specific tactics rather than critical updates that significantly impact SEO practices.
Google AdsSmart BiddingPPC StrategyPerformance MaxDigital Marketing
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SEJ
Jan 21, 2026•Roger Montti
CRITICAL
WordPress Advanced Custom Fields Extended Plugin Vulnerability via @sejournal, @martinibuster
Key Takeaways
- ●A critical vulnerability with a 9.8 severity rating was found in the Advanced Custom Fields: Extended WordPress plugin, potentially affecting 100,000 installations.
- ●The flaw enables unauthenticated users to register as administrators, compromising website security and management.
- ●The plugin update includes enforced validation checks for user role assignments in front-end forms to prevent unauthorized role escalations.
Why it matters: The article discusses a critical security vulnerability that can lead to unauthorized access and control of WordPress sites, which is essential knowledge for SEO professionals managing website security.
WordPress SecurityPlugin VulnerabilityAdvanced Custom FieldsCybersecuritySEO Risks
Read Source ![The Smart Way To Take Back Control Of Google’s Performance Max [A Step-By-Step Guide]](https://cdn.searchenginejournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/featured-482.png)
SEJ
Jan 21, 2026•Channable
Good to Know
The Smart Way To Take Back Control Of Google’s Performance Max [A Step-By-Step Guide]
Key Takeaways
- ●Segment Performance Max campaigns by actual product performance instead of categories to optimize budget allocation.
- ●Classify products into three groups: Star Products, Zombie Products, and New Arrivals to better manage ad strategies.
- ●Regularly review product performance metrics to adjust campaign strategies and improve visibility for underperforming items.
Why it matters: While the article provides actionable insights on optimizing Performance Max campaigns, it does not address a critical update or major change in search engine algorithms or tools.
Google Performance Maxecommerce advertisingPPC budget managementad campaign optimization
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SEJ
Jan 20, 2026•Matt G. Southern
Important
OpenAI Search Crawler Passes 55% Coverage In Hostinger Study via @sejournal, @MattGSouthern
Key Takeaways
- ●AI training bots, such as OpenAI's GPTBot, are experiencing severe access restrictions on websites, with coverage dropping from 84% to 12%.
- ●Conversely, assistant bots like OpenAI's OAI-SearchBot are expanding their reach significantly, allowing access to targeted user queries.
- ●SEO professionals are advised to block AI training bots while permitting assistant bots to enhance visibility in AI search results, balancing server load and discovery.
Why it matters: The article discusses significant changes in bot behavior affecting both SEO and visibility on search platforms, which is crucial for SEO professionals navigating AI interactions.
AI CrawlersSEO StrategyWeb CrawlingOpenAISearch Visibility
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