with Google mobile first indexing, whose recent announcement on July 5, 2024, created so much hype, some are wondering if it's still appropriate to focus on SEO for desktop (display on a computer screen) versions of websites. On Reddit, in A subreddit dedicated to SEOGoogle's John Mueller recently answered this question by emphasizing the importance of keeping sites working and optimized for all types of screens.
Why is desktop optimization still important?
While you prefer GoogleMobile indexingIt is logical to think that improving desktop computers has become unnecessary. John Mueller, one of Google's spokespersons on all things SEO, points out that there are other search engines and indexing robots that still use proxies to display the traditional desktop screen. Ignoring this fact may limit the accessibility and visibility of your site for a large portion of users.
Moreover, many visitors continue to browse the web via Desktop browsers. Providing an optimized user experience across all devices is essential to maximize conversions and ensure universal accessibility. Müller emphasizes that although the main goal is to meet Google's requirements, we must remember that websites exist for much more than that.
Benefits of a responsive website
According to John Mueller, A responsive website eliminates the need to maintain two separate versions (mobile and desktop), thus simplifying site management and improvement. An adaptive, meaning “responsive” site automatically adapts to all screen sizes, providing a consistent user experience, regardless of the device being used. This can reduce costs and time spent maintaining and improving the site.
Mueller also says that it is now essential to create websites that are responsive to all screens. Although some companies may still use non-responsive sites for historical reasons, new projects should systematically include a design that adapts to all screens.
Practical considerations for developers
When considering focusing solely on the mobile version of a site, it is necessary to consider the practical implications and potential challenges. John Mueller notes that running a site with a dynamic service can be a compromise, but requires careful attention to ensure the desktop version is not completely neglected.
It is suggested to find a balance between the needs of developers and project managers. Sometimes it's better to release an initial suboptimal version and then gradually improve it, rather than wait until the perfect version is ready. This pragmatism allows us to quickly respond to user needs while continuing to work on necessary improvements.
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