“Mobilegeddon” April 21 – Are You Sorted?

Google has announced it is making a significant change to its search algorithm for ranking mobile search results.

Google Search|Responsive Websites|Search Engine Optimisation
mobile friendly websites - "Mobilegeddon" April 21 - Are You Sorted?

“Starting April 21, we will be expanding our use of mobile-friendliness as a ranking signal. This change will affect mobile searches in all languages worldwide and will have a significant impact in our search results. Consequently, users will find it easier to get relevant, high quality search results that are optimized for their devices.”

Try Google’s testing tool to find out if your website passes or fails…

What this means in plain English:

Websites that are not mobile-friendly will be ranked BELOW those that are. Ultimately, that means a lower Google ranking for non mobile-friendly website.

Where is this heading?

With desktop and laptop sales dropping and more and more people doing the majority of online searches from smart phones, it is only a matter of time before the same rules are applied to desktop searches.

FAQ:

I don’t get much mobile traffic, do I need to upgrade my site?

Yes. Being mobile-friendly is no longer a choice for your website.  Google is setting the rules and the simple reality is, mobile responsive sites are increasing in TRAFFIC every week and you will be missing out.  You’ve invested in a great website, it makes sense to make the most of it and give your business the best possible chance of success.

Do I really need to be mobile-friendly?

Think about this – How often do you see someone pick up a smart phone or tablet to look something up on Google?

We all do it all the time. Searching Google on a smartphone is a common practice these days and it’s going to happen more and more.  If your website is not mobile-friendly, then you’re missing out.

Not really sure what all this mobile friendly talk is? Check out this video to get a better idea of how a mobile friendly website works.