Google Search Console Now Features AI-Powered Configuration
ā¼ Summary
– Google is introducing an AI-powered configuration feature for Search Console that lets users set up Performance reports using natural language instead of manual filters.
– The feature can automatically apply filters, set up complex date comparisons, and select specific metrics based on plain-language user requests.
– It is currently limited to Search results reports and cannot be used for Discover or News reports, sort tables, or export data.
– Google cautions that the AI can misinterpret requests, so users must review the suggested filters for accuracy before relying on the data.
– The experimental feature is being rolled out to a limited set of websites initially, with broader availability to follow, and user feedback is encouraged.
Google has introduced a new experimental feature within Search Console that allows users to configure their Performance reports using simple conversational language. This AI-powered configuration tool interprets a user’s typed request and automatically applies the corresponding filters, comparisons, and metric selections, streamlining the process of generating customized search performance data.
The system is designed to handle three primary types of report setup. For filters, you can narrow data by simply asking. A command like āshow me queries on phone searches that contain the word āsportsā in the last 6 monthsā will instantly apply the relevant filters for device, query, and date. Setting up comparisons is also simplified. Previously complex tasks, such as comparing traffic for blog pages from one quarter to the same quarter the previous year, can now be initiated with a single natural language prompt. Finally, for metric selection, you can specify exactly which performance indicators you want to see. Asking to āshow me the Average CTR and Average Position of my queries in Spain in the last 28 daysā will generate a report featuring only those two metrics.
It is important to note the current limitations of this experimental tool. The feature works only with Performance reports for Search results and does not yet support data from Discover or News reports. Its functionality is confined to configuring filters, comparisons, and metrics; it cannot sort data tables or export reports. Google has also issued a caution regarding accuracy, noting that the AI can sometimes misinterpret requests. Users are advised to carefully review the suggested filters before analyzing the data to ensure the configuration matches their original intent.
This development is significant because it has the potential to drastically reduce the manual effort involved in setting up complex reports. The ability to articulate a custom date comparison or a multi-layered filter through plain language removes several technical steps, making data exploration more accessible. However, the accuracy caveat is crucial, especially for high-stakes analysis or client reporting. Verifying that the AI has correctly understood your query remains an essential step before relying on the presented data for decision-making.
Google is currently rolling out AI-powered configuration to a limited set of websites, with plans to expand availability over time. No specific timeline for broader access has been provided. Users who have access to the feature can share their feedback directly through buttons within the Search Console interface or by posting in the Google Search Central Community.
(Source: Search Engine Journal)
