Earlier this month, Google Search algorithm update seemingly pushing up ai-generated content. This update introduces an automated ranking system aimed at promoting original and valuable content within search results. However, as reported by Business Insider, numerous content creators have voiced their concerns, asserting that their original content is being displaced in favor of AI-generated content.
It appears that this challenge arises because large language models like ChatGPT were originally trained using data from the web. Consequently, AI-generated content, which might include rehashed information, may inadvertently be favored over genuinely original content. This apparent contradiction clashes with the intention of promoting and prioritizing genuinely original content in search results.
The algorithm essentially compels people to publish AI-generated content
Business Insider pointed to discussions on the WebmasterWorld.com forum, where website owners expressed frustration. One user lamented that their meticulously crafted, long-form, well-researched content featuring original images was being overshadowed in Google Search results by what they described as ‘500-word AI-generated content.‘ This user implied that Google’s algorithm was essentially compelling people to publish AI-generated content to maintain visibility in search results, equating it to a choice of ‘publish AI spam or face obscurity.’
Google regularly releases updates to its search engine, aiming to enhance the user experience and prevent the manipulation of search results by lower-quality content. These updates may temporarily impact a website’s traffic until adjustments are made to align with the new search algorithm requirements.
With the latest update, Google advises website owners to consult its self-assessment guide to determine if their websites conform to the latest criteria. For website owners grappling with negative impacts on their visibility in search results, this guide serves as a starting point to find solutions.
Helpful Content Update
For nearly three decades, Google has been the go-to source for real-time information on a vast array of topics. It has consistently emphasized the importance of delivering “helpful content written by people, for people” in search results. However, recent actions by Google suggest a shift in its stance.
Behind the scenes, Google has revised its own guidelines to acknowledge the rise of AI-generated content on the internet. In the latest iteration of its ‘Helpful Content Update,’ the phrase “written by people” has been replaced with a statement indicating that Google continuously evaluates “content created for people” to rank websites in its search engine.
This linguistic shift underscores Google’s recognition of the significant impact of AI tools on content creation. Despite previous declarations to distinguish between AI-generated and human-authored content, this move suggests that Google is, in practice, aligning itself with the omnipresence of AI-generated material on the internet, contradicting its prior stance.
