Source: Search Engine Roundtable by barry@rustybrick.com (Barry Schwartz). Read the original article
TL;DR Summary of Daily Search Forum Recap: Key Updates from Google, Bing, and AI Developments
**Google** confirms that while most sites don’t need to disavow links, some still do. **Google Ads** will require Customer Match data uploads via a new API starting April 2026. **Bing** is testing new shopping features and introducing Asian-owned business labels. Additionally, ongoing **AI advancements** continue to shape search experiences and advertising landscapes.
Optimixed’s Overview: Essential Insights into Recent Search Engine Updates and AI Trends Shaping SEO
Google’s Evolving Link Disavow and Advertising Policies
John Mueller from Google reiterated that disavow link files remain unnecessary for most websites, but certain sites with problematic backlinks may still benefit from them. Meanwhile, Google Local Service Ads have become costly for some advertisers, and the team has recently been denying credits for calls from existing clients, emphasizing the need for precise lead tracking.
Upcoming Changes to Google Ads Customer Match Uploads
- Starting April 1, 2026, Customer Match data uploads must transition from the Google Ads API to the Data Manager API.
- This change aims to streamline data management and improve upload efficiency for advertisers.
Bing’s New Features and Labels
- Bing is experimenting with a “Go to Shopping” button to enhance user navigation towards shopping results.
- Microsoft Advertising has introduced Asian-owned business labels on some listings, increasing visibility for minority-owned enterprises.
AI-Driven Developments Impacting Search and Content
Recent weeks have seen heightened volatility in Google Search rankings, alongside enhancements in AI-powered search features such as recipe cards and AI-generated landing pages. OpenAI and Microsoft continue to expand AI capabilities, including GPT-5.4 releases and improved generative video tools in Bing Video Creator.
Additional Industry Highlights
- Google now allows opting in/out of AI summaries atop internal search results, a feature SEO professionals hope will extend to public search results.
- Microsoft’s AI integrations, such as Copilot, are influencing content indexing and discovery on platforms like MSN.
- AI tools are reshaping buyer journeys and marketing strategies, as revealed by recent consumer surveys.
