Recap of the March 2026 SEO Update by Yoast

In March 2026, Yoast hosted a webinar led by Carolyn Shelby and Alex Moss, discussing the evolving landscape of search and AI. The session highlighted how AI is becoming more integrated into everyday tools, making it crucial for brands to ensure their content is easily discoverable across various platforms, not just traditional search engines. One significant development was Google’s patent for AI-generated landing pages, which could change how visibility is measured. Brands must adapt by auditing their content for clarity and diversifying their online presence. Additionally, Markdown is emerging as a preferred format for AI, suggesting that brands should consider offering Markdown versions of key content to enhance visibility. Google Search Console now allows users to filter branded versus non-branded queries, providing insights into search intent. Furthermore, Google Maps is testing AI features for local search, emphasizing the need for businesses to optimize their profiles. The Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP) is also gaining traction, encouraging e-commerce brands to integrate early. Overall, the update stresses the importance of optimizing for AI-driven search and maintaining a consistent brand presence across multiple channels.