Google Search Algorithm Updates and Local Map Bugs

Unpacking the Bedlam Local Update

We saw some massive shifts in local maps results during this turbulent period. Google rolled out a major local search Algorithm update that shocked many business owners. Industry experts quickly dubbed this specific ranking shift the "Bedlam" update.

We learned that this change focused heavily on relevancy rather than searcher proximity. Google modified how it matches search queries with local businesses to favor better matches over closer ones. This means your business can win local spots even if you are located further away from the searcher.

We believe this is a great step forward for quality local businesses. You do not have to worry as much about being block-by-block close to your target customers anymore. Focus your energy on making your business listing as relevant as possible.

Continuous Core Algorithm Tremors

We also tracked several unconfirmed and confirmed core ranking updates throughout the entire month. Multiple tremors caused search engine results pages to fluctuate wildly. SEO professionals worldwide reported massive jumps and sudden drops in their daily traffic.

Google confirmed that their search Algorithm updates were not just focusing on link building. The updates targeted broader quality signals and content relevance across all niches. Sites with thin content or outdated information took a hard hit during these rollouts.

We recommend keeping a close eye on your search analytics during these volatile periods. Do not panic and make massive changes to your website right away. Instead, focus on creating high-quality content that serves your audience first.

Google Bugs and Console Issues

We had to deal with several annoying technical bugs alongside the core ranking updates. Google Search Console temporarily lost image search click data during a crucial week. Furthermore, a strange indexing bug prevented pages with a new meta tag from showing up in search results.

We also saw Google My Business listings randomly disappear due to a confirmed platform bug. Google quickly resolved these issues, but they caused plenty of stress for webmasters. Additionally, Google Maps ran into issues with its local Q&A display features.

We love to stay ahead of these technical glitches so we can save our sanity. Did your website traffic get hit by these recent Algorithm updates or system bugs? Let us know what changes you noticed in your search rankings below!