On August 1, Google confirmed the release of a broad core algorithm update. Since the announcement, the update is being dubbed the “Medic Update” because of its apparent emphasis on the health and medical spaces. However, according to Google liaison Danny Sullivan, this is a “global” change that doesn’t single out any specific vertical.
Moz offered a look at the categories seeing the most impact (below). While “Health” was at the top, it wasn’t singularly affected. According to Moz’s Dr. Peter J. Meyers, “this isn’t a situation where one category was blasted and the rest were left untouched.”
As expected, the SEO space is buzzing with perspectives, analysis and interesting insights tracking this shift. Here are some noteworthy views of the update:
- Analysis and Findings From The August 1, 2018 Google Algorithm Update – A Massive Core Ranking Update (GSQi)
- Google’s August 1st Core Update: Week 1 (Moz)
- Google’s Aug. 1 core algorithm update: Who did it impact, and how much? (Search Engine Land)
- My thoughts on the August 1, 2018 Google Algorithm Update (Marie Haynes Consulting)
- How Has Google’s August Broad Core Algorithm Update Affected Local Business Websites? (BrightLocal)
From Google’s perspective, generally these changes aren’t intended to punish pages but rather boost those that deserve it. According to a tweet back in March from @GoogleSearchLiaison:
“As with any update, some sites may note drops or gains. There’s nothing wrong with pages that may now perform less well. Instead, it’s that changes to our systems are benefiting pages that were previously under-rewarded….”
