Google is constantly experimenting with its search results page, and the latest test involves a significant change to featured snippets. Traditionally, featured snippets display a single website, but Google is now testing a triple-featured snippet format. This experiment builds upon the SGE beta and showcases multiple websites within the same snippet, offering users a broader range of perspectives and information.
The Evolution of Featured Snippets: Google’s experimentation with featured snippets have been ongoing, with various formats being tested. Previously, Google introduced a format called ‘perspectives’, which displayed a similar multi-website snippet structure. However, it is important to note that the recently announced carousel feature, designed to showcase content lower on the SERP, differs from the triple-featured snippet test.
Understanding the Triple Featured Snippet Test: Unlike the previous ‘double featured snippets’ format, where two snippets were stacked vertically, the triple featured snippet test presents up to three websites horizontally. This layout provides users with a more comprehensive overview and diverse perspectives on a particular query.
Variations in the Test: In addition to the triple-featured snippet format, there are reports of a double-featured snippet variation that appears less visually striking than the triple variant. If this test aligns with the earlier mobile ‘perspectives’ test, a quadruple variation could also exist, further expanding the diversity of information presented.
Implications and Future Potential: The introduction of triple-featured snippets can revolutionize search results by offering users a broader selection of perspectives in a concise format. It allows multiple websites to gain exposure and for searchers to explore different viewpoints on a topic within a single snippet. From an SEO perspective, this test emphasizes optimizing content to increase the chances of being featured in these coveted spots.
Conclusion: Google’s latest test of triple-featured snippets demonstrates the search engine’s commitment to continuously improving and refining search result formats. By presenting multiple websites within a single snippet, Google aims to enhance user experience and provide a more comprehensive range of information. As this experiment unfolds, it will be interesting to observe its impact on search behaviour, SEO strategies, and the overall landscape of featured snippets.
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MM Rahman Bappi 