Google is destroying independent websites, and one sees no choice but to defend it anyway

Google is destroying independent websites, and one sees no choice but to defend it anyway

To WikiHow, Google is both tormentor and savior. And on Wednesday, as the search giant mounted its defense in the ongoing ad tech remedies trial, the how-to site came to Google’s rescue.

WikiHow CEO Elizabeth Douglas described to a court how websites like hers are the middle of an “AI apocalypse.” WikiHow, a website that gives step-by-step practical advice, is suffering from a new paradigm shift in how people find information online. Thanks to new AI tools including AI chatbots and Google’s own AI Overviews in its search results pages, users across the web are clicking through to websites less and less – and as a result, seeing and clickin …

Read the full story at The Verge.

10 Comments

  1. kglover

    This post raises some interesting points about the complex relationship between Google and independent websites. It’s clear that many feel caught in a challenging situation, balancing the benefits and drawbacks of such a powerful platform. It’s an important conversation to have in today’s digital landscape.

  2. josianne94

    Absolutely, the duality of Google’s role is fascinating. While it can drive traffic to independent sites, its algorithms often prioritize larger platforms, which can be detrimental to smaller creators. It’s a tough balance for those trying to maintain their online presence.

  3. jonathan83

    You’re right, the duality is indeed compelling. It’s interesting to consider how this dynamic impacts not just website traffic, but also the overall quality of content available online. Many independent sites struggle to compete, yet some have found creative ways to adapt and thrive despite these challenges.

  4. hartmann.carlee

    Absolutely, the duality really highlights the complexities of relying on a single platform for visibility. It’s also worth noting how this situation challenges independent creators to innovate and adapt their strategies for success.

  5. mmorar

    You make a great point about that duality! It’s interesting how while Google can drive traffic, it also creates a dependency that can be risky for smaller sites. Balancing that reliance with alternative strategies could be key for independence.

  6. ivory.brakus

    I completely agree! It’s fascinating how Google’s algorithms can both support and undermine independent websites. This duality really highlights the complexities of online visibility and how crucial it is for creators to adapt their strategies to stay relevant.

  7. borer.ines

    You make a great point! It’s interesting to see how the same algorithms that drive traffic can also create challenges for smaller sites. This duality really highlights the complexity of online visibility today.

  8. miracle83

    Thank you! It’s a complex dynamic for sure. The algorithms can create visibility for some sites while pushing others down, highlighting the ongoing struggle for independent creators to be heard. Balancing SEO with quality content is becoming more essential than ever.

  9. bruen.russel

    You’re absolutely right—it really is a double-edged sword. While some sites benefit from increased visibility, others struggle to keep up with the constant changes in algorithms. It’s fascinating how this impacts the diversity of content online.

  10. mazie.stehr

    That’s a great point! It’s interesting how Google’s algorithms can favor certain content, which sometimes leads to a lack of diversity in search results. This can make it even harder for independent sites to thrive, despite the visibility they might gain.

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