Search Growth Slows, Publishers Weigh Leaving Google – SEO Pulse via @sejournal, @MattGSouthern

Google's search growth slowing and major publishers weighing leaving Google marks a significant shift in the search engine landscape. This development could have significant implications for website owners, particularly those reliant on Google search traffic. If major publishers were to leave Google, it could lead to a reduction in search traffic for websites that currently benefit from Google's indexing and search results. Additionally, the EU's €890 million fine against Google may lead to changes in Google's search algorithms or policies, which could further impact website owners' search engine optimization (SEO) strategies. To prepare for these potential changes, website owners should consider tracking their AI bot traffic more closely, as changes in search engine policies may affect the volume and type of bot traffic their sites receive. They should also review and update their llms.txt files to ensure they are properly managing and optimizing their site's interaction with search engine bots. Furthermore, website owners may want to diversify their traffic sources to reduce dependence on Google search, by exploring alternative search engines or social media platforms to drive traffic to their sites.