Definition:
Google Hummingbirdis a new version of the search engine algorithm fully written from scratch that Google launched in August 2013, during the 15th anniversary of the American technology company. The name of this new version, hummingbird is a metaphor for the improved accuracy and speed that this algorithm update incorporates.
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Features of Google Hummingbird
Unlike other algorithm updates like Google Panda or Google Penguin that are based on page rank, Hummingbird focuses entirely on the search method with the aim of responding to a type of user who is increasingly performing more complex searches, especially through mobile devices that allow conversational searches.
How Google Hummingbird works
This new version of the search algorithm focuses on making better interpretations of users’ searches that yield more accurate results. To do this, the algorithm focuses on analyzing the search as a whole instead of doing it based on each word, with the classic system of keywords and concordance of them. In this way the search engine reaches a degree of complexity never seen to date being able to better understand what the user needs and throwing search results that go beyond web pages: now Google also offers geolocations,reviews and many more variables.
Google said at the launch of this update of the algorithm that it affects more than 90% of searches so it is undoubtedly one of the the most important changes,if not the most, in the history of the search engine, although it has not produced a change in the SERPs as great as other updates that focused on the level of quality of the websites did.
Frequently asked questions about Google Hummingbird
What does Google Hummingbird mean in digital marketing?
Google Hummingbird refers to the concept described in this glossary entry: Definition: Google Hummingbird is a new version of the search engine algorithm fully written from scratch that Google launched in August 2013, during the 15th anniversary of the American technology company. The name of this new version, hummingbird is a metaphor for the improved accuracy and speed that this algorithm update incorporates. It gives teams a shared vocabulary for analysing digital projects.
When should teams pay attention to Google Hummingbird?
Teams should review Google Hummingbird when it affects acquisition, measurement, user experience, content, automation or campaign performance. The important step is to connect the definition with a real decision.
How is Google Hummingbird used in a digital strategy?
Google Hummingbird is used by translating the concept into practical checks: where it appears in the funnel, which data or channel is involved and whether it needs optimisation, monitoring or documentation.
What is a common mistake when interpreting Google Hummingbird?
A common mistake is using Google Hummingbird too broadly. It is better to verify the context, the tool or the metric involved before making strategic or technical conclusions.