Observed Signal · May 3, 2023 · Technical Release · Source: OnlineMarketing.de · Impact: 4/5 · Sentiment: Neutral
Google Tests Instagram Follower Counts in Snippets
Google is reportedly testing a feature on mobile search results that displays Instagram follower counts within the SERP snippet. The follower count would appear near the site name, replacing the previous emphasis on the URL. The discovery was highlighted by Matt Navarra in a tweet and attributed to Alex Greenland, who showed examples of the new layout. OnlineMarketing.de notes it could not access the feature in their own test. The report situates the test within Google's broader SERP enhancements, including blue highlights for answers and related features. As a test, the impact on influencer discovery and branding could be notable if the rollout expands, but no broad deployment is confirmed.
Major platform (Google) testing a new SERP feature that could impact how social metrics are displayed to users
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- Google is testing display of Instagram follower counts in mobile search result snippets.
- Follower counts would appear beneath the website name in the SERP rather than in the URL area.
- The feature discovery is credited to Alex Greenland, with examples shared by Matt Navarra.
- OnlineMarketing.de could not access the feature in their own test.
- The article mentions Google's blue highlight for SERP answers as part of broader search enhancements.
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