Google Mobile-First Index Update: What You Should Know

Search engine optimisation is about to change in a significant way in March 2021.

Google is set to remove all desktop-only websites, images, and assets from their index. This means no more indexing or ranking.

This move reflects the way people are most likely to browse - using their smartphones and tablets for internet searches. However, mobile-indexing has been the standard for a while. Any website launched as of July 2019 or after has been mobile indexed, so your website may already be prepared.

Another important fact to note is that you can’t opt out of this update. Google is making the change to mobile-first indexing only and it is up to website owners to comply.

That being said, here’s what’s important for you to know to protect your site’s ranking.

Use Responsive Web Design

Responsive web design ensures that user experience is optimised regardless of the type of device your patients are using. Responsive websites are flexible and don’t require changes to suit multiple devices.

If you are already using a responsive website design, this mobile-first indexing change shouldn’t affect your website.

M-dot websites, which are a “slimmer” version of a website, may also experience trouble with indexing when these new changes are implemented because they redirect your site back to the desktop. These “bugs” could impact your ranking with Google. 

Maintain Consistent Content

Be sure to keep the same content on both your desktop and mobile sites. Headlines for your content should be consistent and visually appealing for both sites.

User experience is important to Google when it comes to top rankings, so be sure your patients are enjoying the same user-friendly attributes when they visit your site whether it’s on a computer or mobile device.

Keep Your Eye on Your Visual Content

Keep in mind that user experience is not the same on desktops versus mobile devices. Make sure you’re providing high resolution images that don’t look too small for your mobile design. Also keep your visual content the same for both versions of your website, just be sure to use a mobile-friendly format to ensure the best user experience.

If You’re Unsure, Seek the Help of Professionals

SEO rules and best practices are always changing. If you’re not sure that your website is ready for the mobile-first index update, seek some help from a reputable marketing services provider.

It could mean the difference between not skipping a beat and disappearing completely from the internet.