Possible Google Search Ranking Volatility Around January 12
I am seeing signs of a possible Google search ranking update or volatility around January 12, 2026. This is weird in that most of the tools, not all, are mostly calm, but the chatter has picked up and many SEOs are noticing ranking fluctuations.
Latest Articles
Personal Intelligence In Gemini & Soon In Google Search AI Mode
Google is rolling out what it calls "Personal Intelligence" in the Gemini app and it will soon also come to Google Search within AI Mode. Google announced that Personal Intelligence in Gemini "connects Gmail, Photos, YouTube and Search in a single tap."
Google's John Mueller Says Universal Commerce Protocol Won't Kill SEO
Earlier this week, Google announced Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP) and it has a lot of the industry worried. Once SEO named Ramon Eijkemans said, "I hate to bring this, but SEOs: we’re gonna be f$@*ed." John Mueller from Google responded on Bluesky and said, "I disagree."
Search Video Recaps
Google: Favicons In Search Not Impacted By Google Core Updates
While a number of Google Search features are impacted by Google's core update, favicons showing up or not is not one of them. Yes, your site can drop in the rankings, or not show up in Google Discover, or be removed from Top Stories and other features but favicons are not impacted by core updates.
New Google AI Mode Ads: Explore Guides and Articles
We have seen ads in AI Mode before but there may be a new Google Ads format coming to AI Mode results, not the just the Direct Offer ads, but Explore guides and article ads.
Google Trends Explore Page Adds Gemini
Google has added Gemini to the Google Trends Explore page to help you find new and fresh search terms. It will also compare those search terms automatically for you, all in a new design. This is rolling out now, but you might not see it just yet.
Archives
Daily Search Forum Recap: January 14, 2026
Jan 14, 2026Google: We Prohibit Showing Different Prices In Search/AI Mode vs Website
Jan 14, 2026Google: Linking Brand Websites Together At Reasonable Scale Is Fine
Jan 14, 2026Google AdSense Earnings Dropping Again eCPM/RPM - Complaints
Jan 14, 2026Google Ads Faster Account Set Up With Campaigns
Jan 14, 2026Microsoft Advertising Releases Guide To AEO & GEO
Jan 14, 2026Daily Search Forum Recap: January 13, 2026
Jan 13, 2026Official: Apple Intelligence & Siri To Be Powered By Google Gemini
Jan 13, 2026Microsoft Advertising Now Allows Up To 50 Search Themes In PMax Campaigns
Jan 13, 2026Picture of the Day
