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Algorithm updates, Google announcements and local search changes, with what each one means for your business.
AI searchHigh impactIn testing, confirmed by Google
Google is testing AI Overviews that expand to the full answer by default, with a follow-up box loaded underneath. Ordinary results sit lower on the page as a result.
Local Services AdsHigh impactAnnounced to advertisers
From October 1, 2026, Google Local Services Ads will bill some missed calls and follow-up calls as leads. Here is what counts and how to avoid paying for nothing.
Google Business ProfileMedium impactKnown issue, no fix date
Google is aware that reviews are not returning on some Business Profiles after a suspension is lifted. There is no timeline for a fix. Here is what to do meanwhile.
Local Services AdsMedium impactAnnounced by Google
Google Local Services Ads now let some businesses take leads before full verification, and have added far more specific categories across auto, beauty and dining.
Google Business ProfileLow impactRolling out, later confirmed by Google
Google Business Profile posts show view counts again, labeled “people viewed”, after the metric was removed in 2023. See which posts your customers notice.
Google Business ProfileLow impactIn testing, not confirmed
Google is testing a Q&A button in the Business Profile dashboard that asks owners yes or no questions about their business, likely to feed its AI answers in Maps.
Algorithm updateMedium impactConfirmed by Google
Google released a global spam update on August 18, 2026 and finished it on August 21. It covers all languages. Here is what it means for a local business site.
Google Business ProfileMedium impactLive, spotted by users
Google has added a way to report an owner's reply to a review for harassment, profanity, off-topic content, hate speech or personal information. Replies now need care.
Search ConsoleLow impactConfirmed by Google, fixed
A sudden fall in Search Console clicks and impressions around August 12 to 13 was a reporting error, Google confirmed. Data was fixed going forward on August 20.
AI searchMedium impactObserved, not confirmed by Google
Local search expert Joy Hawkins showed Google's AI Overview for a law firm search drawing every recommendation from one lawyer's own listicle. Here is why that matters.
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