Google shifted its focus on mobile search in 2015 when it rolled out an algorithm update that introduced a new ranking signal. The search engine announced that they would be boosting the visibility of mobile-friendly sites and app content in the SERPs to cater to the evolving preferences of users.
Users have always wanted to get relevant information on their queries instantaneously, and the advent of smartphones paved the way for search to become more accessible. In February 2015, Google announced that they would be rolling out an algorithm update to adapt to users’ browsing behaviors.
The update entailed two significant ranking signals introduced to the search engine:
Before the update rolled out, webmasters were worried about how it would affect their rankings and whether there would be a significant shuffling in the SERPs. However, during its launch, the algorithm had a relatively minor impact. It was definitely lesser than what the SEO community anticipated.
On April 21, there were slight changes in the results pages with the most difference happening the day after, albeit still only affecting a small portion of the index. Prominent websites such as Wikipedia, Facebook, WebMD, Pinterest, Yelp, and even e-commerce sites like Amazon and Walmart emerged as victors after the update.
Today, almost all consumers use their smartphones for a lot of things. These devices have been packed with a lot of computing power that the future may well be fully mobile. You need to ensure that your website can keep up with the needs of your target audience by implementing a responsive design that will present your content in the best light.
Here are three factors that mobile-friendly websites have: