Back to Calendar

Daily SEO Brief

Friday, January 9, 2026

16 articles published

Final brief

What You Need to Know

Today's SEO landscape is significantly shaped by recent updates emphasizing niche expertise and the growing significance of YouTube in SEO strategies. As AI continues to influence search mechanisms, professionals must adapt their strategies to prioritize quality content and effective audience targeting.

Must-Read Highlights

1

The December core update favors specialized content over generalist websites, particularly for queries with commercial intent, highlighting the need for niche expertise.

SEO Pulse: Core Update Favors Niche Expertise, AIO Health Inaccuracies & AI Slop
2

YouTube's role as a crucial component of SEO has increased, with nearly 30% of Google's AI Overviews referencing content from the platform.

YouTube is no longer optional for SEO in the age of AI Overviews
3

New tools like Google's Gemini are recommended for marketers to integrate into their ad strategies as part of a shift toward leveraging conversational AI.

Paid Media Marketing: 8 Changes Marketers Should Make In 2026
4

Google warns against creating bite-sized content, advocating instead for long-form content that prioritizes user engagement and human-centric strategies.

Google doesn’t want you to create bite-sized chunks of your content
5

Google's new A/B testing feature for Performance Max campaigns allows advertisers to evaluate asset performance more effectively, indicating a focus on informed decision-making.

Google launches A/B testing for Performance Max assets (Beta)

All Articles from This Day

SEO Pulse: Core Update Favors Niche Expertise, AIO Health Inaccuracies & AI Slop via @sejournal, @MattGSouthern
SEJ
Jan 9, 2026•Matt G. Southern
CRITICAL UPDATE

SEO Pulse: Core Update Favors Niche Expertise, AIO Health Inaccuracies & AI Slop via @sejournal, @MattGSouthern

AI Analysis
  • ●The December core update has favored specialized sites over generalist ones, particularly in queries with commercial intent.
  • ●SEO professionals should focus on category-specific content as ranking pressure increases for generalist sites.
  • ●Concerns have arisen about AI-generated health information accuracy, highlighting the importance of expertise in health-related content.
Why it matters: The article discusses critical updates regarding Google's December core algorithm, which directly impacts SEO professionals' strategies and site rankings.
Google Core UpdateSEO StrategyAI and Health ContentRanking FactorsContent Specialization
Read Source
Paid Media Marketing: 8 Changes Marketers Should Make In 2026 via @sejournal, @brookeosmundson
SEJ
Jan 9, 2026•Brooke Osmundson
High Importance

Paid Media Marketing: 8 Changes Marketers Should Make In 2026 via @sejournal, @brookeosmundson

AI Analysis
  • ●Marketers should integrate conversational AI tools like Google's Gemini and Microsoft's Copilot into ad creation for efficient scaling and optimization.
  • ●Data privacy concerns necessitate a shift towards robust first-party data strategies to enhance targeting effectiveness in light of unreliable third-party cookies.
  • ●Utilizing CRM tools and transparent customer interactions is crucial for building trustworthy data collection practices and maintaining compliance with privacy regulations.
Why it matters: The article discusses significant updates in advertising strategies related to AI and data privacy, which are essential for SEO professionals to adapt to changing market conditions.
Conversational AIAd TargetingData PrivacyDigital MarketingAd Creation
Read Source
Google doesn’t want you to create bite-sized chunks of your content
SEL
Jan 9, 2026•Barry Schwartz
High Importance

Google doesn’t want you to create bite-sized chunks of your content

AI Analysis
  • ●Google advises against creating bite-sized content for better performance with LLMs, emphasizing a focus on content designed for human readers.
  • ●Danny Sullivan stated that short-term gains from such strategies may lead to long-term penalties as Google's algorithms improve in prioritizing human-centric content.
  • ●SEO professionals are encouraged to evolve their strategies based on audience needs rather than temporary trends in AI content consumption.
Why it matters: The article discusses a significant recommendation from Google regarding content strategy, particularly in relation to LLMs, which could impact SEO professionals' approaches to creating content.
Google AlgorithmsContent StrategySEO Best PracticesAI and LLMsSearch Engine Updates
Read Source
YouTube is no longer optional for SEO in the age of AI Overviews
SEL
Jan 9, 2026•Greg Jarboe
High Importance

YouTube is no longer optional for SEO in the age of AI Overviews

AI Analysis
  • ●YouTube has become essential for SEO strategies as it now acts as core search infrastructure, driving both YouTube and Google search results.
  • ●Brands that fail to optimize content for YouTube risk losing visibility across traditional search and AI-driven discovery mechanisms.
  • ●YouTube is cited in nearly 30% of Google's AI Overviews, highlighting its importance as a dominant source for AI-generated content.
Why it matters: The article discusses significant changes in SEO strategies necessitated by AI developments and the critical role of YouTube, making it an important update for professionals.
YouTube SEOAI in SearchVideo MarketingGenerative Engine OptimizationSearch Engine Optimization
Read Source
Google launches A/B testing for Performance Max assets (Beta)
SEL
Jan 9, 2026•Anu Adegbola
High Importance

Google launches A/B testing for Performance Max assets (Beta)

AI Analysis
  • ●Google introduces A/B testing for Performance Max assets, allowing advertisers to compare two asset sets while keeping some assets constant.
  • ●This beta feature provides advertisers with increased control over asset-level performance insights, which is crucial given the automation-heavy nature of Performance Max campaigns.
  • ●Tests should run for at least four weeks to properly analyze performance and drive informed decision-making regarding creatives.
Why it matters: The introduction of asset-level A/B testing in Google Ads is a significant update for advertisers, enhancing their ability to optimize Performance Max campaigns effectively.
Google AdsPerformance MaxAB TestingDigital MarketingPaid Search
Read Source
5 Key Enterprise SEO And AI Trends For 2026
SEJ
Jan 9, 2026•Lemuel Park
High Importance

5 Key Enterprise SEO And AI Trends For 2026

AI Analysis
  • ●Enterprise SEO strategies are evolving to account for AI and LLMs, requiring a focus on foundational SEO.
  • ●The rise of AI agents, which now account for 33% of organic search activity, necessitates optimization for these new discovery platforms.
  • ●Brands that proactively adapt their SEO practices in response to these trends will gain a competitive advantage in visibility and authority.
Why it matters: The article discusses significant trends that affect enterprise SEO practices in the evolving landscape of AI and search behavior, which are crucial for professionals to adapt to.
Enterprise SEOAI OptimizationSEO TrendsSearch Engine MarketingSearch Visibility
Read Source
Google AI Overviews are tested and removed based on engagement
SEL
Jan 9, 2026•Danny Goodwin
High Importance

Google AI Overviews are tested and removed based on engagement

AI Analysis
  • ●Google's AI Overviews in Search are dynamic and dependent on user engagement; they will be removed if users do not find them valuable.
  • ●The personalization of AI search is currently a minor adjustment, focusing on adjusting results rather than major shifts, but aims to improve user experience over time.
  • ●Google is testing ads within AI-powered search experiences, signifying a potential shift in monetization strategies while ensuring transparency around sponsored content.
Why it matters: This update highlights critical trends in user engagement and AI utilization that directly impact SEO strategies and visibility.
Google AI OverviewsSEO updatesuser engagementsearch personalizationAI search monetization
Read Source
Microsoft expands search themes in Performance Max to 50
SEL
Jan 9, 2026•Anu Adegbola
Good to Know

Microsoft expands search themes in Performance Max to 50

AI Analysis
  • ●Microsoft has expanded the capability of Performance Max campaigns, allowing advertisers to add up to 50 search themes, enhancing control over automation.
  • ●The new feature enables marketers to effectively manage demand signals without the need for collapsing intent into fewer themes or creating multiple campaigns.
  • ●The update indicates a shift towards signal-based control, pairing search themes with audience targeting to focus on high-value customers.
Why it matters: While the update improves campaign control for advertisers, it does not directly affect SEO practices or core search engine algorithms.
Microsoft AdvertisingPerformance MaxPPCSearch ThemesDigital Marketing
Read Source
Anthony Higman shares a PPC redemption story
SEL
Jan 9, 2026•Anu Adegbola
Good to Know

Anthony Higman shares a PPC redemption story

AI Analysis
  • ●Anthony Higman emphasizes the importance of client education and strategic guidance, particularly in the PPC and SEO sectors to avoid poor decisions and improve results.
  • ●Higman highlights the challenges of managing client expectations in complex industries and advises agencies to focus on their core expertise to ensure better outcomes.
  • ●He warns about common mistakes in modern paid search, especially with the rise of AI, stressing the necessity for strategic oversight despite automation.
Why it matters: The article provides insights and lessons learned from PPC experiences, which are good to know for professionals, but it does not cover critical updates or changes impacting SEO directly.
PPCClient ManagementSEOAI in AdvertisingMistakes and Growth
Read Source
Why Demand Gen is the most underrated campaign type in Google Ads
SEL
Jan 9, 2026•Jyll Saskin Gales
Good to Know

Why Demand Gen is the most underrated campaign type in Google Ads

AI Analysis
  • ●Demand Gen campaigns in Google Ads allow advertisers to reach audiences based on user demographics and interests rather than just search queries.
  • ●These campaigns are available across Google properties like YouTube, Discover, and Google Maps, and utilize various audience targeting options such as lookalikes and remarketing.
  • ●Demand Gen offers versatile creative options and unique bidding strategies, including the new Target CPC, focusing on actions like clicks and conversions.
Why it matters: While the article provides useful insights and strategies for optimizing Google Ads, it primarily focuses on a specific campaign type rather than critical updates or changes affecting the broader SEO landscape.
Google AdsDemand GenAudience TargetingPaid AdvertisingMarketing Strategy
Read Source
19 WordPress Alternatives: From Simple Builders To Enterprise CMS via @sejournal, @MattGSouthern
SEJ
Jan 9, 2026•Matt G. Southern
Good to Know

19 WordPress Alternatives: From Simple Builders To Enterprise CMS via @sejournal, @MattGSouthern

AI Analysis
  • ●The article provides an overview of leading WordPress alternatives suitable for various website types, including user-friendly builders and flexible open-source platforms.
  • ●Key features, benefits, and drawbacks of platforms like Wix and Squarespace are outlined, focusing on user experience and performance considerations.
  • ●Community feedback and reviews are included to highlight strengths and weaknesses, particularly in relation to SEO performance and migration challenges.
Why it matters: While the article offers useful insights into alternative CMS options, it does not address critical updates or changes directly impacting SEO, rating it as good to know rather than essential.
SEOWordPress AlternativesWebsite BuildersCMSUser Experience
Read Source
PPC Pulse: Reddit Max Campaigns, Google Creator & Microsoft Targeting Updates via @sejournal, @brookeosmundson
SEJ
Jan 9, 2026•Brooke Osmundson
Good to Know

PPC Pulse: Reddit Max Campaigns, Google Creator & Microsoft Targeting Updates via @sejournal, @brookeosmundson

AI Analysis
  • ●Reddit launched Max Campaigns, an automated ad format aimed at streamlining ad setup and scaling conversions, similar to Google's Performance Max.
  • ●Google Ads enhanced its Creator Partnerships beta with new tools for easier creator discovery and centralized management, aiming to integrate creators into ad strategy.
  • ●Microsoft Advertising announced a new partnership that incorporates Epsilon audience data, enhancing targeting capabilities on its platform.
Why it matters: While the updates provide valuable insights for advertisers, they are not critical changes affecting SEO or search engine algorithms directly.
PPCReddit AdvertisingGoogle AdsMicrosoft AdvertisingCreator Economy
Read Source
Top 10 Google Ads mistakes to avoid in 2026
SEL
Jan 9, 2026•Brad Geddes
Good to Know

Top 10 Google Ads mistakes to avoid in 2026

AI Analysis
  • ●Ensure consistent conversion tracking setup across your Google Ads account to improve optimization decisions.
  • ●Include exact match keywords in your PPC campaigns, as they remain the highest-converting match type despite Google's push for broad match.
  • ●Conduct regular audits to check for consistency in campaign settings, such as excluded regions, ad schedules, and bid strategies.
Why it matters: The article offers useful tips and strategies for optimizing PPC campaigns, making it good to know but not critical for immediate SEO operations.
Google AdsPPC mistakesconversion trackingexact match keywordscampaign auditing
Read Source
SEO Maintenance: A Checklist For Essential Year-Round Tasks via @sejournal, @coreydmorris
SEJ
Jan 9, 2026•Corey Morris
Good to Know

SEO Maintenance: A Checklist For Essential Year-Round Tasks via @sejournal, @coreydmorris

AI Analysis
  • ●Implement a structured planning approach to SEO that includes daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual tasks to maintain performance.
  • ●Stay informed about industry news and updates, particularly regarding AI developments and subtle changes in SEO best practices, to avoid deploying outdated tactics.
  • ●Regularly monitor key SEO performance metrics to quickly identify and address any drops in traffic, sales, or leads, ensuring timely interventions.
Why it matters: The article discusses valuable planning strategies and the importance of monitoring SEO metrics, which is helpful but not critical compared to urgent industry changes.
SEO PlanningPerformance MetricsDigital MarketingAI in SEOIndustry News
Read Source
Why ecommerce SEO audits fail – and what actually works in 30 days
SEL
Jan 9, 2026•Gert Mellak
Good to Know

Why ecommerce SEO audits fail – and what actually works in 30 days

AI Analysis
  • ●Traditional audit-plus-retainer SEO models often experience stalled execution and delayed results for ecommerce brands.
  • ●Ecommerce businesses may prioritize immediate revenue generation over extensive SEO audits, leading to a demand for more focused and actionable strategies.
  • ●Optimizing SEO efforts with clear ROI projections and a limited scope can enhance engagement and results within a shorter time frame.
Why it matters: This article provides useful insights and tactics for improving SEO execution in ecommerce, though it does not address critical algorithm or policy changes.
ecommerce SEOSEO auditsSEO strategyretainer modelperformance marketing
Read Source
Google tests expanded video limits in Performance Max
SEL
Jan 9, 2026•Anu Adegbola
Good to Know

Google tests expanded video limits in Performance Max

AI Analysis
  • ●Google is testing an increase in video asset limits for Performance Max campaigns, allowing up to 15 videos per Asset Group instead of the current 5.
  • ●This change aims to provide advertisers with greater creative flexibility by accommodating multiple video formats without necessitating campaign fragmentation.
  • ●Advertisers should prepare for improved creative testing and coverage across various platforms, as this update may enhance their Performance Max campaign effectiveness.
Why it matters: While the update regarding video limits in Performance Max is significant for PPC advertisers, it does not impact core SEO practices or major search engine algorithm changes.
Performance MaxGoogle AdsVideo MarketingPPCAdvertising Strategies
Read Source