As the Internet gains even more of a foothold in our everyday lives, search engine optimization continues to be one of the most important facets of the online experience. Just like the Internet itself, SEO is an ever-changing beast, one that adapts to survive and thrive in the face of Google algorithms and various other challenges. With that in mind, here are some of the most important SEO trends to watch out for in 2017:

1. The rise of AMPs (Accelerated Mobile Pages)

The fact that more and more people are relying on mobile devices to access the Internet is hardly new information. But Google’s recent AMP project has taken things to another level. By promising to boost load speeds on mobile devices by up to four times, it basically forces publishers to move to AMP content or risk being left behind. Since speed will continue to be one of the deciding factors that affect SEO rankings, you can expect AMP to become an even bigger news story in 2017.

2. Machine learning will alter the way search algorithms work

After Google RankBrain was released last year, the floodgates for algorithmic machine learning were finally opened. This means that things will start shifting in a more organic manner from now, with adaptability being the key for survival. SEO experts recommend enhancing research to better understand how the proliferation of machines will end up impacting SEO in the long run. But one thing’s for sure – things will never be the same again.

3. The line between UEO and SEO will continue to blur

Standing for user experience optimization, UEO generally refers to the various practices that are designed to improve the end user experience. As SEO continues to develop, it finds itself in a position where the goals of the two niches are very similar. After all, better-made sites breed more traffic and end up ranking higher. With that in mind, SEOlogist in Toronto is committed to helping businesses build the best possible websites for their users.

4. Increased importance placed on video content

Over the last few years, video content has grown exponentially as new technologies emerge that allow websites to stream videos faster and in a more visually-appealing way. In many cases, even the SEO strategies for e-commerce sites now heavily involve video content. While the written word isn’t going the way of the dodo anytime soon, branching out into video can make a world of difference when it comes to your website’s popularity.

5. The rising influence of voice search

In the past year, personal digital assistants have finally made the leap from technological curios to mainstream ubiquity. As the likes of Cortana and Siri continue to aid consumers in their queries, you can expect voice search to factor more and more into SEO rankings. People talk differently than they type, so knowing how to optimize your website for voice search will be paramount in 2017.

All in all, SEO looks set to continue its lightning-fast evolution throughout 2017. Only by knowing and understanding the aforementioned practices will your business be able to thrive in these competitive times.