Google has up to date its assist doc titled Do you need an SEO? Google stated the adjustments are to assist when “evaluating your search engine optimization’s suggestions and instruments, together with different minor updates to the web page to simplify and modernize the content material.” However the doc additionally added a bit for Optimizing for generative AI and ensuring your search engine optimization follows Google’s pointers round that matter.
The 2 key adjustments within the doc are the “Optimizing for generative AI” sections and its content material round search engine optimization instruments and utilizing third-party instruments for search engine optimization. The FTC line was at all times there, although some reported that as new.
Right here is the new document and right here is an archived version to match.
There are tons of textual adjustments to the doc, and it’s general loads smaller than the unique doc; it’s about 30% smaller now. However Google wrote:
If they’ve recommendation on optimizing for AI experiences (also called “AEO” “GEO” providers), is their recommendation aligned with Google Search’s official steering on optimizing for generative AI options?
This hyperlinks to Google’s new doc on generative AI optimization. Google needs you to be sure that your search engine optimization firm is just not utilizing spammy techniques to govern the generative AI search responses.
Additionally, Google added a bit on third-party instruments:
In case your search engine optimization provides to do an search engine optimization audit for you, be sure you fastidiously think about what’s concerned and solely grant learn entry to Search Console (at this stage, do not grant them write entry). An search engine optimization audit ought to be about providing you with reasonable estimates of enchancment, and an estimate of the work concerned. In the event that they assure you that their adjustments will provide you with first place in search outcomes, discover another person.
In case your search engine optimization makes use of a third-party device, needless to say Google does not consider or endorse third-party search engine optimization instruments, and these instruments do not have entry to Google’s inside rating information. Be cautious of instruments that declare to be “acceptable” or “accredited” by Google Search.
The truth is, that final part is in purple and highlighted.
Listed below are some good screenshot highlights from Glenn:
Second, there is a new web page for “Google Search’s steering on utilizing third-party search engine optimization instruments, providers, and recommendation” which accommodates details about AEO/GEO as nicely. I nonetheless imagine we are going to see a spam replace that wipes out websites gaming AI Search… We would additionally see new guide actions… pic.twitter.com/tIrwxOQOSg
— Glenn Gabe (@glenngabe) June 6, 2026
Google additionally made a brand new doc on third-party tools, services and advice.
Discussion board dialogue at X.