AI Overviews glitch reveals how Google thinks, Microsoft rolls out Copilot for retailers, Martin Splitt tackles hidden noindex tags, and more

What’s new in search this week? From AIOs glitches to noindex tips—let’s break it down!

AI

• AI Overviews glitch may hint at Google's algorithm

A recent glitch in Google's AI Overviews feature, dubbed "AI-splaining" by Lily Ray, has offered insights into how the company’s algorithm interprets search queries and selects answers. Users found that entering nonsensical phrases prompted the AI to generate plausible-sounding but entirely fabricated explanations.

The researchers tested how various AI models respond to unfamiliar prompts by inventing a fictitious fishing technique. When asked about this nonexistent method, Google's AI Overviews and ChatGPT confidently provided detailed, fabricated explanations. In contrast, Claude 3.7 Sonnet and Gemini 2.5 Pro correctly identified the method as fictional, offering plausible alternatives or asking for clarification instead.

By the way, SE Ranking recently tested how leading AI search tools perform across a range of queries. See how they compare in our research.

Tech SEO

• Martin Splitt explains how to find and remove hidden noindex tags

Martin Splitt shared advice on how to identify and remove hidden noindex tags that can block pages from being indexed. He recommended using the URL Inspection Tool in Google Search Console to detect if a page is excluded due to a noindex directive.

If issues are found, site owners should review their page templates, CMS settings, or JavaScript to locate and eliminate unwanted noindex tags. Splitt emphasized that even dynamically injected noindex tags can cause indexing problems if not carefully managed.

• Google Analytics enhances campaign data quality and attribution reporting

Google Analytics has introduced updates to improve campaign data quality and attribution reporting. A new label, "(data not available)," now appears in GA4 reports when source or medium information is missing due to system processing, and can't be addressed by users—unlike the "(not set)" label, where users can often take corrective action.

To enhance data completeness, Google has implemented aggregate identifiers as a fallback when the Google Click Identifier is unavailable. Additionally, smart fallback mechanisms now use manual tagging, specifically utm_campaign, to ensure accurate campaign attribution and reduce mislabeling of traffic sources.

Local SEO

• Google Business Profiles introduces video previews for verification

Google has rolled out a new feature for its Business Profiles: video previews during the verification process. This enhancement allows business owners to review their verification videos before submission, so they can identify and fix any issues—potentially reducing resubmissions and speeding up verification.

E-commerce

• Microsoft launches Copilot Merchant Program for retailers

Microsoft has introduced the Copilot Merchant Program, allowing retailers to integrate their product data directly into the Copilot AI assistant. By participating, merchants can share detailed product specifications to ensure Copilot provides accurate, up-to-date information to users. Features include:

• Price tracking
• Product comparisons
• Direct purchasing options within the Copilot interface

Interested businesses can express their interest by completing the Copilot Merchant Interest Form. Microsoft will review submissions and provide instructions for integration.

Documentation

• Google to deprecate SpecialAnnouncement structured data by July 31, 2025

Google has announced that it will discontinue support for the SpecialAnnouncement structured data type on July 31, 2025. 

“Webmasters and site owners are encouraged to remove this markup from their pages, as it will no longer be recognized by Google Search after the specified date.”

However, it won't cause any issues if left in place, and other search engines may continue to support it.

• Google Chrome maintains third-party cookies, abandons new opt-out prompt

Google has announced that it will retain third-party cookies in Chrome and will not introduce a new standalone opt-out prompt for users.

What does this mean for companies?

Companies can continue using related targeting tools without needing to adopt alternative solutions.

What does this mean for users?

Users will still be able to manage their cookie preferences through Chrome’s Privacy and Security settings. Additionally, Incognito Mode will continue to block cookies, and Chrome will maintain its Safe Browsing and AI-powered security features.