Daily Search Forum Recap: September 15, 2025

09/15/25
Source: Search Engine Roundtable by barry@rustybrick.com (Barry Schwartz). Read the original article

TL;DR Summary of Google Search Console Reporting Issues and Search Industry Updates

Since the removal of the 100 search results per page feature, Google Search Console reporting has shown significant discrepancies. Most third-party tracking tools are affected and unreliable following this change. Contrary to rumors, structured data does not currently improve AI search visibility, and Google has not added an AI overview filter to Search Console. Additionally, the FTC is investigating Google over ad pricing transparency, and Bing Places is rolling out upcoming updates.

Optimixed’s Overview: Navigating Recent Changes in Search Console and the Search Ecosystem

Impact of Google’s Search Results and Reporting Changes

Recently, Google removed the option to display 100 search results per page, which has led to noticeable disruptions in performance data within Google Search Console. Many users have reported unusual trends, such as declines in desktop impressions and fluctuations in average positions. This change has also caused third-party search tracking tools to malfunction, resulting in inaccurate or incomplete data since mid-September.

Clarifying AI Search Visibility and Search Console Features

  • Structured data/schema markup is currently not influencing AI search visibility, dispelling a common misconception in the SEO community.
  • Reports about Google adding an AI Overviews filter to Search Console are false; no such feature exists as of now.

Regulatory and Platform Updates Affecting Search Marketers

  • The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is investigating Google and Amazon regarding their advertisement pricing and disclosure practices, which could impact future ad policies.
  • Bing Places is preparing an update aimed at improving navigation and user experience for businesses managing their local listings on Bing Maps.

Additional Industry Notes and Community Insights

Aside from platform updates, the search marketing community is actively discussing changes in icon colors within Google Search Console UI, AI search myths, and strategies for adapting to evolving SEO landscapes. Noteworthy mentions include the rise of AI search visits projected for 2025 and ongoing discussions about content optimization and indexing automation.