Source: Search Engine Roundtable by barry@rustybrick.com (Barry Schwartz). Read the original article
TL;DR Summary of Google Search and Ads Updates: June 2025 Core Update and AI Mode Enhancements
The June 2025 Google core update continues to cause significant search ranking volatility days after completion. Google AI Mode is now prominently integrated into the search box, highlighting Google’s AI search advancements. Updates in Google Ads include new optimization tips, limited negative keyword support in Performance Max campaigns, and a ban on daily fantasy sports ads in California. Additionally, Google Maps is enhancing business profiles with a more visible Ask button for user engagement.
Optimixed’s Overview: Navigating Google’s Latest Search Volatility and AI-Powered Tools
Continued Search Ranking Fluctuations Post-Core Update
Following the completion of the June 2025 core update on July 17th, Google search rankings remain highly volatile. Webmasters and SEO professionals are reporting ongoing significant ranking shifts, indicating that the update’s effects are still unfolding.
Google AI Mode Enhancements and Microsoft Copilot Comparison
- Google AI Mode has been added directly to the search home page search box, making AI-powered search features more accessible to users.
- Microsoft’s Jordi Ribas compared their Copilot AI search tool with Google’s AI Mode, noting that both excel but target different query types.
Google Ads Updates and Policy Changes
- An Optimization Score column in Google Ads now features a tips icon providing actionable recommendations to improve campaign performance.
- Despite official documentation, some advertisers report the ability to add negative keyword lists to Performance Max campaigns, suggesting possible beta testing or rollout.
- New policy prohibits daily fantasy sports advertising on Google Ads in California due to state legal restrictions.
Google Maps and Local Business Profile Improvements
Google is experimenting with placing the Ask button more prominently in business profiles on Google Maps, aiming to boost user interaction and customer engagement.
Additional Industry Insights
- News publishers should monitor Google’s Preferred Sources test affecting Top Stories visibility.
- Instagram’s indexing improvements may influence search visibility, as discussed by SEO experts.
- DuckDuckGo introduces a setting to hide AI-generated images, emphasizing user choice and privacy.
