Google is watching you watch TV

Google Granted Patent On Using What You Watch On TV As A Ranking Signal

http://www.seobythesea.com/2014/09/google-patent-watch-tv-as-ranking-signal/

By Reuben Yau@reubenyau

What is SEO by The Sea?

• Blog by Bill SlawskiDir. Search Marketing, Go Fish Digital

• Offers Google patent synopsis

What is a ranking signal?

• A data point used to determine how to rank pages in search results

Ok, so back to the patent…

"might monitor what’s on TV in your area, and look for queries that might be related to that information"

How do search results change?• The TV show you're watching is about a Porsche 911 Turbo

• The user searches for “Porsche,” Google can return more information such as:

• 1) the “911 Turbo” model (e.g., a link to information on the Porsche.com website about the “911 Turbo”)

• 2) Information about the TV program that is currently airing with that segment

• 3) Suggestions of similar programming that is currently airing or airing in the future and that is available to the user.

Google knows where you are

… at all times

https://maps.google.com/locationhistory/b/0

What else can Google assume?

• Where you live• Where you work• Where you shop• Where you hang out• Who your friends and family are• What TV programs are playing in your area• …

Big shift in ranking signals

www

RankingSignals

So what changes?

• More content that supports your ads

• What other environmental aspects could Google use?

• New ad opportunities for marketers?

Thanks

Reuben YauDirector SEO Reprise Media

@reubenyauReuben.yau@reprisemedia.com