Google is gearing up to release another product reviews update, the August 2022 product reviews update, in the coming weeks. This announcement accompanies the forthcoming helpful content update.
The search giant aims to make it easier to find high-quality, original product reviews. This update represents another refinement in the product reviews ranking system, ensuring users find the most useful information when researching a purchase online.
Timing and Updates: Google will announce on its updates page when the rollout begins and concludes. Expect additional updates around the week of August 29th, although the exact date could change.
Previous Updates: This marks the fifth iteration of the product reviews update, targeted at ranking the most helpful and useful product review content. The update series began on April 8, 2021, followed by the second on December 1, 2021. The third and fourth updates were released on March 23, 2022, and July 27, 2022, respectively. The July 2022 update completed its rollout on August 2, 2022.
Purpose of the Product Reviews Update: The goal of this update is to promote in-depth, unique review content in search rankings. Google emphasizes that it is not punishing lower-quality reviews outright, but content that fails to meet higher standards may see demoted rankings.
Impact Scope: Initially, this update targets English-language product reviews, with plans to expand to other languages based on positive outcomes.
Advice for Review Content: Google has previously advised focusing on insightful analysis and original research by experts or enthusiasts. Key questions your product reviews should address include:
– Do they express expert knowledge?
– Do they show the product’s physical attributes with unique content?
– Do they provide quantitative performance measurements?
– Do they compare the product to competitors?
– Do they discuss benefits and drawbacks?
– Do they describe improvements from previous models?
– Do they identify key decision-making factors and rate performance in those areas?
– Do they include evidence such as visuals or audio to support the review?
Google’s advice also extends to ranked lists and comparison reviews, recommending the demonstration of expertise and authenticity in a concise manner, including original test images and first-hand evidence when claiming a product as the best in a category.
Standalone Nature: Unlike core updates, the product reviews update is a standalone process focused specifically on review content, though the core advice on quality content remains relevant.
Why It’s Important: Website owners specializing in product review content should monitor their rankings to assess any impact, whether positive or negative. To thrive long-term, it’s crucial to enrich product review content with detailed, unique insights to stand out from competitors.
Those who have previously been affected by core updates and have made improvements may find rewards in this August 2022 product reviews update.
