Google Pigeon is the name given to a major update to Google’s local search algorithm, released in 2014. This update is regarded as the most significant change to Google’s local search functionality.
Key Points About Google Pigeon:
- Integration of Organic Search Signals: Google Pigeon applied ranking signals and factors from Google’s organic search algorithm to local search. This integration enhanced the quality and relevance of local search results.
- Improved Location and Distance Metrics: The update placed a stronger emphasis on location and distance as ranking factors, making local search results more accurate and closely aligned with users’ actual geographic locations.
- Impact on Web and Maps Search: Google Pigeon affected both Google Web Search and Google Maps Search, improving the accuracy and relevance of local business listings across both platforms.
- Evolution of Local Search: While Google Pigeon was a major step forward, it was not the only update aimed at refining local search. Since 2014, Google has introduced additional updates—both confirmed and unconfirmed—that have further enhanced the effectiveness of local search.
Overall, Google Pigeon represented a significant advancement in Google’s ability to deliver high-quality, relevant local search results, making it a crucial update for users seeking local businesses and places.
