Daily Search Forum Recap: December 9, 2025

12/09/25
Source: Search Engine Roundtable by barry@rustybrick.com (Barry Schwartz). Read the original article

TL;DR Summary of Search Forum Updates: Google Core Update, ChatGPT Crawler, and Ads Insights

Google is preparing a new core update expected soon, while Search Console now offers more granular weekly and monthly data views. OpenAI updated its ChatGPT crawler, changing its usage details. Additionally, Google clarified that ads will not be introduced to the Gemini app, and new insights emerged on the performance of Google Ads AI Max.

Optimixed’s Overview: Key Developments in Search Engine Updates and AI Advertising Tools

Google’s Upcoming Core Update and Enhanced Search Console Features

Google representatives confirmed that the next core algorithm update is still in progress and should be released soon, though the exact timing remains uncertain. To empower SEO professionals and marketers, Google has enhanced the Search Console by introducing weekly and monthly performance report views, allowing for more detailed data analysis over different timeframes.

OpenAI’s ChatGPT Crawler Updates

OpenAI has revised its OAI-SearchBot, the crawler used by ChatGPT. The updates remove previous statements about the crawler’s role in link discovery and training foundational AI models, indicating a shift in usage transparency.

Advertising Developments: Gemini App, Google Ads AI Max, and Offline Conversion Bugs

  • Gemini app: Google’s VP of Global Ads confirmed there are no current plans to integrate ads into the Gemini app, countering previous reports suggesting ads might appear by 2026.
  • Google Ads AI Max: Since its global release, advertisers have experienced mixed results; some have found success by tailoring AI Max to specific campaign needs, while others note underperformance compared to traditional match types.
  • Offline conversion uploads: A known bug affects Google Ads’ offline conversion data uploads, causing incomplete data reporting that may impact campaign analysis.
  • Ads Advisor tool: This new feature can now reference external, third-party sources beyond Google’s own help documentation, enhancing the quality and reliability of advertising advice.

Additional Industry Highlights

Beyond these updates, the search community shared insights such as the evolving nature of AI-driven search prompts, the growth of indexed URLs for niche knowledge bases, and rankings of leading generative AI websites. Google also conducted a winter clothing drive in NYC, emphasizing community engagement alongside technological innovation.