Observed Signal · Aug 30, 2023 · Technical Release · Source: OnlineMarketing.de · Impact: 4/5 · Sentiment: Neutral
Google Tests Mentioned-In Dropdown in SERPs
Google is reportedly testing a new 'Mentioned in' dropdown in Search Engine Results Pages (SERPs) that links snippets to third-party sources via a scroll-to-text mechanism. This follows Google's August 2023 announcement to reduce the visibility of FAQ Rich Results, restricting display to government and health sites and ending regular display of FAQ markup for other pages. The Search Central Blog notes that while sites can remove unused structured data, there is no obligation to do so, and unused data may have no visible effect. Web operators should anticipate a traffic drop in Rich Results reporting. The test was reported by SEO expert Brodie Clark on his blog and on X, describing two dropdown variants (default-open and closed) with navigation via scroll-to-text to additional information. The feature could boost CTR and perceived expertise for topics, but remains in an experimental stage.
Major platform (Google) testing a new SERP feature; potential impact on SEO/advertising industry.
Track Google Signals & Market Shifts in Real-Time
Polaris7 autonomous intelligence agents track regulatory filings, primary sources, executive changes, and deal flow 24/7. Create your free Explorer workspace to monitor these entities.
Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- Google announced in August 2023 a reduction in the visibility of FAQ Rich Results in Search.
- FAQ Rich Results will only be shown for government and health websites; other pages will not regularly display FAQ content.
- Google's Search Central Blog states you can drop structured data if you choose, but there is no need to proactively remove it.
- Google is testing a 'Mentioned in' dropdown in SERPs that provides links to third-party sources and supports scroll-to-text navigation.
- The test was reported by Brodie Clark on his blog and on X, noting two dropdown variants (default-open and closed).
Connected Companies & Entities
1 Entity mappedOntology Mapping & Concepts
Related Market Signals & Shifts
Recent verified developments and strategic activity across this market segment.
US Government Excludes Microsoft from Visa Program
The US government has barred Microsoft from participating in the permanent residency process for foreign workers with H-1B visas, accusing the company of abusing the program. Vice President JD Vance stated that Microsoft laid off 6,000 American employees last year while benefiting from 6,300 H-1B visa holders. The Department of Labor, led by Keith Sonderling, will not accept new permanent residency applications from Microsoft, as well as several consulting firms and Adobe. This action comes weeks before the midterm elections and reflects the Trump administration's broader criticism of the H-1B program, which it claims disadvantages American workers. Microsoft has not yet responded. The move could impact the tech industry's ability to retain skilled foreign talent.
Amazon unveils new Alexa tablets with AI and Google Play
Amazon has announced a new generation of tablets under the Alexa brand, including the Alexa Tablet 12 Pro, Alexa Tablet 11, and Alexa Tablet 8. All devices run on Android, integrate the AI assistant Alexa+, and for the first time offer direct access to the full Google Play Store, allowing users to install apps like YouTube, Netflix, and Gmail alongside Amazon services. The tablets feature various screen sizes, processors, and battery lives, with prices starting at $229.99. A special Kindle reading mode and new kids' models with parental controls have also been introduced. Sales begin in North America on October 8, with shipping from October 14, and European availability, including Germany, starts October 19.
Grok Bot Searches X, Integrates Rival AI Models
SpaceXAI has enhanced its AI agent Grok Bot with the ability to continuously search and analyze the entire X platform. Users can now deploy the agent for 24/7 social listening, brand monitoring, and trend analysis, similar to Google's Information Agents. Grok Bot will also integrate other AI models from competitors, such as Claude Opus 5.5, Midjourney, and Suno, depending on the task. This move signals a shift towards multi-model AI agents and expands the capabilities of AI-driven social media analytics.
Track Real-Time Market Signals & Shifts
Set up custom watchlists to receive automated, evidence-grounded executive digests whenever material signals or shifts occur across your tracked landscape.