Daily Search Forum Recap: September 8, 2025

09/08/25
Source: Search Engine Roundtable by barry@rustybrick.com (Barry Schwartz). Read the original article

TL;DR Summary of Google Search and AI Mode Updates: Key Highlights from Search Forums

Google AI Mode was announced to become the default search experience soon but this was later retracted. Google was fined $3.5 billion by the EU and must divest part of its ad-tech business. The open web is reportedly in rapid decline according to recent court documents, contradicting earlier positive statements. Google also advises using a traditional TLD even with a hyphen and personalizes AI Mode results using Search and Maps activity.

Optimixed’s Overview: Essential Google Search Developments and AI Mode Personalization Insights

Google AI Mode and Search Experience Changes

Google initially announced that its AI Mode would soon become the default search interface, signaling a shift towards more AI-driven results. However, this statement was quickly retracted, indicating uncertainty or reconsideration of the rollout timeline. AI Mode now personalizes dining-related search results using your Search and Maps activity, accompanied by a clear disclaimer about this personalization.

Significant Legal and Market Updates

  • EU Fine and Divestiture: Google was fined €2.95 billion ($3.5 billion) by the European Union for anti-competitive practices favoring its own ad-tech services. The company is required to divest part of its advertising technology business as part of the ruling.
  • Decline of the Open Web: In a recent court filing, Google lawyers stated that the open web is in rapid decline, a notable contrast to earlier statements by Google executives asserting the web is thriving.

SEO and Domain Name Recommendations

John Mueller from Google advises website owners to choose traditional top-level domains (TLDs), such as .com, even if it means including a hyphen in the domain name. This is preferred over opting for newer or potentially lower-quality TLDs.

Innovations in Search Features

  • AI Overviews and Business Reviews: Google AI is now incorporating individual reviews from Google Business Profiles into its overview snippets, enhancing the detail and relevance of search results related to local businesses.
  • Testing Alternative Related Search Phrases: Google is experimenting with alternatives to the classic “People also search for” label, including options like “Related your search,” “Search for next,” and “Also search for.”

Additional Insights

Google recently hosted a workshop on Breathwork, a practice involving controlled breathing techniques for mental and physical wellness, indicating the company’s interest in holistic employee wellbeing.