The Search Relations team at Google talks about how Web3 might affect SEO while highlighting its problems and new applications.
The Google Search Relations team made up of John Mueller, Gary Illyes, and Martin Splitt, dove into a thought-provoking discussion about the effect of Web3 on SEO in the most recent episode of the “Search Off the Record” podcast.
While noting that Web3 is still in its infancy, the team offers insights and discusses how this technology may impact SEO strategies.
Web3 is Transforming the Online Environment
With its acceptance of decentralization and use of blockchain technology, Web3 signifies a progression of the internet.
Web3 seeks to improve data privacy, enable peer-to-peer connections, and give users more control over their online experiences than the traditional web.
The Puzzle of Web3’s Impact on SEO
The staff talked about the effects of Web3 on SEO strategies, search engine rankings, and website visibility during the podcast.
Even though they avoided discussing specifics and examples, the conversation raised some important points.
With regard to the difficulties created by Web3 domains, Mueller explained that while these addresses resemble top-level domains, they lack the well-known structure of conventional domains.
As a result, while attempting to crawl and index material from these unusual domains, Google’s search crawlers encounter obstacles.
Mueller elaborates:
“Google has no idea what it is attempting to do, even if you have a browser plugin installed that interacts with that fictitious top-level domain. As a result, from that perspective, it’s almost like a I dunno, vanity name that people are just utilizing and treating as a domain name. However, the domain name isn’t legitimate”.
Unveiling The Potential Use Cases
The team admits that Web3 systems haven’t made much progress so far, but it’s still important to consider the possible applications of this cutting-edge technology.
The following are some possible uses for Web3:
Decentralized Applications (dApps)
Decentralized applications (dApps), which run on peer-to-peer networks and frequently make use of blockchain technology, are made possible via Web3. Decentralized social media networks, non-fungible token (NFT) marketplaces, and decentralized finance (DeFi) systems are illustrative instances. By functioning without middlemen, these applications promote transparency, security, and user control.
Domains Based on Blockchain:
Blockchain-based domains, which depart from conventional domain names, are a concept introduced by Web3. By using decentralized naming systems, these domains give consumers ownership and control over their domain names without depending on centralized domain registrars. The Ethereum Name Service (ENS) and Unstoppable Domains are notable examples.
Privacy & Digital Identity:
Web3 can improve online privacy and identification. Web3 enables individuals to own and control their personal data by utilizing decentralized identification solutions and cryptographic concepts. The growing desire for better online privacy and data security is in keeping with its user-centric focus on privacy and data control.
In the Future
While the effects of Web3 on SEO techniques, search engine results, and website exposure are still being investigated, this episode of Search Off The Record provides insights into the difficulties and factors to be taken into account.
Splitt recognized the limited development shown so far, saying:
“So far, I haven’t seen as much construction using Web3 platforms. I suppose we’ll figure it out and look into it more if it becomes a huge deal”.
SEO experts and website owners may need to modify their techniques as Web3 technology develops to ensure the best discoverability.