Google new ranking factors

Google's algorithm is constantly evolving, and new ranking factors are being added or updated regularly. Here are some of the latest and most significant Google ranking factors:

  1. Page Experience: Google introduced Page Experience as a ranking factor in 2021. It measures how well a page provides a good user experience, including factors like:
    • Loading speed
    • Mobile-friendliness
    • Secure browsing (HTTPS)
    • Safe browsing (no malware or phishing)
  2. Core Web Vitals: Core Web Vitals are a set of metrics that measure a page's user experience, including:
    • Largest Contentful Paint (LCP): measures the time it takes for the main content to load
    • First Input Delay (FID): measures the time it takes for the page to respond to user input
    • Cumulative Layout Shift (CLS): measures the amount of layout shift on the page
  3. BERT and Natural Language Processing (NLP): Google's BERT algorithm is a significant update to its natural language processing capabilities. It helps Google better understand the context and intent behind search queries, which can impact ranking.
  4. Entity-Based Search: Google is increasingly using entity-based search, which focuses on identifying and ranking entities (people, places, things, etc.) rather than just keywords.
  5. User Behavior Signals: Google is using user behavior signals, such as:
    • Click-through rate (CTR)
    • Bounce rate
    • Time on page
    • Scroll depth
    • Search query refinement
  6. Mobile-First Indexing: Google's mobile-first indexing means that the mobile version of a page is used as the primary version for indexing and ranking.
  7. HTTPS and SSL: Google continues to prioritize HTTPS and SSL-encrypted websites, as they provide a secure browsing experience for users.
  8. Content Quality and Relevance: High-quality, relevant, and engaging content remains a crucial ranking factor. Google aims to reward content that provides value to users.
  9. Link Equity and Authority: Link equity and authority continue to play a significant role in Google's ranking algorithm. High-quality backlinks from authoritative sources can improve a page's ranking.
  10. Structured Data and Schema Markup: Google uses structured data and schema markup to better understand the content and context of a page, which can improve ranking and visibility.
  11. Page Speed and Performance: Page speed and performance continue to be important ranking factors, as they impact the user experience and can affect conversion rates.
  12. Accessibility: Google is increasingly prioritizing accessibility, including factors like:
    • Screen reader compatibility
    • Keyboard-navigable menus
    • Closed captions and transcripts
  13. Local Search and Google My Business: Local search and Google My Business listings are crucial for businesses with physical locations, as they can improve visibility and ranking in local search results.
  14. Voice Search and Natural Language: Google's voice search and natural language processing capabilities are becoming increasingly important, as more users use voice assistants and natural language queries.
  15. Entity-Centric Search: Google is using entity-centric search, which focuses on identifying and ranking entities (people, places, things, etc.) rather than just keywords.

Keep in mind that these ranking factors are not exhaustive, and Google's algorithm is constantly evolving. It's essential to stay up-to-date with the latest developments and best practices to optimize your website for search engines.