Google Instant Search

Last week Google launched Instant Search in the UK.
Basically this allows you to type your search query into the Google search box as before, but for each keystroke you get a prediction of what you are looking for and a list of results below. The idea is that Google predicts the list of keyword phrases that you are probably searching for, complete with organic and paid results.

Benefits to Google Instant
According to Google, there are three benefits:

1. Faster searches. It should save somewhere between two to five seconds per search.
2. Instant results. For each keystroke you get a list of results to choose from.
3. Smarter searching that will help guide users to relevant content.

As Google Instant expands it will provide more benefits to mobile devices in particular, where typing isn’t so easy. However at present it only works on these browsers:

• Chrome v5/6
• Firefox v3
• Safari v5 for Mac
• Internet Explorer v8

It’s also only available to users when they are signed into their Google accounts.

How Will Google Instant Effect SEO?

According to a statement by Google, its ranking algorithm has not changed so SEO will not be affected. It does, however add a new dimension to SEO. Because now, not only is it important to be on the first page, it’s also important to be listed when the first few letters are typed in, preferably at the top!

There is a lot of talk among SEO specialists about how this will affect well optimised and high ranking sites and what might need to be done to remain high in the rankings. Also how will PPC campaigns be effected?

Like all new introductions it’s important to be aware and keep a close eye on keyword performance over the coming months. There may well be some unforeseen changes in search behaviour because of this, or it may simply make searching the web quicker and easier.