Google’s latest updates have added new complexity to how visibility is earned in 2025. Here’s what’s changed, why it matters, and what to focus on this month.
Recipe for Success
Google has expanded AI Overviews to include food-related searches with implied recipe intent – even when the word “recipe” isn’t used. Users are now served ingredients and instructions directly in search results, potentially reducing clicks to publisher sites.
> Why It Matters: This update doesn’t just affect foodies. If your content relies on how-to traffic, you’ll need to rethink structure and value. Optimising for featured AI inclusions means making content clearer, better formatted, and rich in schema markup – especially around E-E-A-T factors.
New Rankings Insights
A large-scale study of 25,000 queries confirms that high-ranking pages still dominate AI Overviews and power tools like ChatGPT and Perplexity. Top-10 positions – especially #1 – are most likely to be cited.
> Why It Matters: Ranking still rules in the AI era. With strong SEO essential to being surfaced, we’re helping clients shore up on structured content that answers questions fast and thoroughly, whilst removing anything they’ll be penalised for: think thin content or spammy affiliate pages.
Your SEO To-Do List
With AI Mode now live and the June Core Update rolling out, visibility hinges on relevance, clarity, and quality. Here’s what you can do this month to hold your rankings – and gain ground:
- Surface real answers fast: AI Overviews prioritise pages that clearly answer user questions. Scan top URLs and tighten headings, intros, and product copy to hit intent directly.
- Stay structured: Google and AI tools love clean structure. Use schema markup (FAQ, How-To, Product), refine your H1–H3 hierarchy, and avoid keyword clutter.
- Think like a searcher: “Chicken cordon bleu” now triggers a recipe – even without the word. Apply that logic to your offering: what implied intent might your customers have? Mirror it in your metadata and on-page content.
- Hold your nerve: June’s update rolls out over 3 weeks. If performance shifts, track in GSC, but resist knee-jerk changes. Focus on quality, not quick fixes.
How PH Digital Can Help
Good SEO is earned, not guessed. Our SEO experts can help with clear content strategies and strong technical foundations that turn algorithm shifts into a springboard for success.