Mobile-First Indexing

What is Mobile-First Indexing?

Mobile-first indexing means that Google primarily uses the mobile version of a website's content for indexing and ranking. This shift was driven by the increasing use of mobile devices for web browsing. As of July 1, 2019, mobile-first indexing is enabled by default for all new websites. For existing sites, Google continues to monitor and evaluate the readiness for mobile-first indexing. The goal is to ensure that users have a seamless experience, whether they are accessing a site via a mobile device or a desktop computer. Site owners should ensure that their mobile site is well-optimized with high-quality content, fast load times, and responsive design to maintain or improve their search rankings.

A practice where Google predominantly uses the mobile version of a website for indexing and ranking.

Examples

An e-commerce website noticed a drop in its search rankings. Upon investigation, it was found that the mobile version of the site had missing product descriptions and poor navigation. By revamping the mobile site to match the desktop version, the website saw a significant improvement in rankings and user engagement.

A local restaurant's website was optimized primarily for desktop users. After switching to a mobile-first approach, they ensured that their menu, contact information, and reservation system were all easily accessible on mobile devices. This resulted in a higher number of online reservations and better visibility on search engines.

Additional Information

Ensure that mobile and desktop versions of the site have the same content.

Prioritize fast loading times and responsive design for mobile sites.

References

Mobile-First Indexing: What It Means & Best Practices - Semrush

What is Mobile-First Indexing? - Ahrefs

How Does Mobile-First Indexing Work, and How Does It Impact SEO?