July 2024 has been an eventful month in the world of SEO, with significant developments impacting search strategies and practices. Here are the key highlights:

Major Updates and Changes

Google's AI Overviews and Ranking Algorithm Volatility

Google has been refining its AI Overviews, aiming to provide more accurate search results. However, the visibility of AI overviews in search queries has dropped to a record low of 7%​ (The Search Herald)​ (Lumar). Additionally, Google has experienced increased ranking algorithm volatility, suggesting ongoing adjustments and testing​ (The Search Herald).

SearchGPT by OpenAI

OpenAI has launched a prototype of its new AI-powered search engine, SearchGPT. This tool provides direct answers with clear citations, challenging traditional link-based search engines like Google. SearchGPT combines GPT-4 capabilities with real-time web information, allowing users to ask follow-up questions conversationally​ (Marketing Miner)​ (Lumar).

Zero-Click Searches

The trend of zero-click searches continues to grow. Recent studies show that almost 60% of Google searches now result in no clicks, with a significant portion of clicks directed towards Google's own platforms like YouTube, Google Maps, and Google Images. This trend raises concerns about Google's monopolistic practices and the impact on web publishers and marketers​ (Lumar)​ (ROI Revolution).

Google's End of Continuous Scroll

Google has reverted to paginated search results on desktop, ending the continuous scroll feature. This change is expected to improve search speed and user experience, although it may lead to fewer impressions and clicks for results appearing on the second page​ (ROI Revolution)​ (Diggity Marketing).

Strategic Insights

Internal Linking for SEO Improvement

Google has shared tips on effective internal linking to enhance SEO and user experience. Proper internal linking can help distribute page authority and improve site navigation​ (The Search Herald).

Keyword Mapping Importance

Keyword mapping remains a crucial SEO strategy. It involves assigning target keywords to specific web pages to align content with user intent and improve search rankings. Regular updates to the keyword map are essential to address content gaps and avoid keyword cannibalization​ (Marketing Miner).

Industry Movements

Google's Partnership with Reddit

Google has secured a $60 million annual deal with Reddit to access and index its content. Reddit, however, has blocked other search engines and AI bots, except for Google, from crawling its site. This move aims to protect Reddit's content from being used without proper agreements​ (Marketing Miner)​ (Distinctly)​ (SEOPress).

Google Earnings and Ad Revenue

Google's ad revenue has seen a 14% year-on-year increase, reaching $48.5 billion. Despite changes and challenges in the search experience, businesses continue to invest heavily in Google Ads due to its dominance in driving web traffic​ (Distinctly).

Upcoming Google Core Update

A new Google core update is expected to roll out soon, potentially addressing concerns from content creators about ranking fairness and the prominence of large publisher websites​ (Distinctly)​ (SEOPress).

These updates highlight the dynamic nature of SEO and the importance of staying informed about the latest trends and changes. For businesses and marketers, adapting to these developments is crucial to maintain and improve search visibility.

For more detailed insights, you can explore the full articles from sources like (The Search Herald), (Marketing Miner), (Lumar), (ROI Revolution), (Distinctly), and (Diggity Marketing).