Source: Search Engine Roundtable by barry@rustybrick.com (Barry Schwartz). Read the original article
TL;DR Summary of Google Search Console Android App Search Appearance Data Bug
Users have reported a sudden drop to zero in impressions and clicks for the Android App search appearance filter in Google Search Console starting mid-August. Despite the app functioning normally and analytics data showing visits, the performance report data for this filter is missing, suggesting a possible Google reporting bug. Google has not yet acknowledged or addressed the issue publicly. This filter, introduced in 2019, has been reliable until the recent anomaly.
Optimixed’s Overview: Understanding the Recent Google Search Console Android App Data Discrepancy
What’s Happening with the Android App Filter in Google Search Console?
Several webmasters and SEO professionals have noticed a significant decline in performance metrics specifically tied to the Android App search appearance filter within Google Search Console’s performance reports. From August 12th onwards, reports show that clicks and impressions associated with this filter sharply decreased, often hitting zero by August 18th.
Key Details to Note:
- Functionality Checks: Apps linked to affected reports continue working properly, with no issues noted in Google Play Console.
- Analytics Data Remains Consistent: Visits tracked via Google Analytics show normal activity, indicating the app usage itself is unchanged.
- Potential Reporting Bug: The discrepancy appears isolated to the Search Console filter data, pointing to a possible internal Google bug.
- Lack of Official Response: Google has not yet confirmed or commented on this issue, leaving users reliant on community forums for updates.
Background on the Android App Search Appearance Filter
This filter was introduced by Google in 2019 to help webmasters monitor how their Android app content performs in search results. Until now, it has provided valuable insights into app-related search traffic, making this recent reporting problem particularly impactful for app marketers and SEO experts.
