Google OneBox is a separate display box within the SERPs where the results of a matching search are compiled. The OneBox uses Google's universal search results. The Knowledge Graph is a special form of the OneBox. Google has expanded the functionality of OneBox with the Hummingbird update. Only specific search queries will trigger the display of the Google OneBox.
Background
In order to provide answers to specific questions that are as precise as possible, Google has repeatedly experimented with displaying search results. With OneBox, Google has found a way to integrate its vertical search engine results into organic SERPs.[1]
Even though user benefits are the priority according to Google's consolidated statements, the increasingly integrated OneBox has drastically reduced the space for organic search results for certain queries. Therefore, it could be assumed that OneBox is also intended as a tool for users to interact as long as possible with Google products. This increases the likelihood that these users will also click on an ad, which is controlled by Google AdWords.
Examples of Google OneBox apps
Google OneBox appears for many different searches. However, its functionality varies from country to country. Incorporating vertical search results into organic search on google.com is the most advanced in the United States and the United Kingdom. The following results are displayed in a table:
- Local Search Results: If you need a location or region, a separate box with additional information about this location or region will appear on the right side of the SERPs.
- Google Shopping results: For searches in which Google suspects that there is a purchase intention, Google Shopping results are displayed.
- Weather forecast: if you want a combination of weather + city / region, the OneBox will give you information about the weather.
- Sporting event results: if certain current sporting events are entered into the Google Doodle, the result will be displayed in a OneBox.
- Holidays can also be searched with Google: the result is displayed in the OneBox
Other causes of the appearance of a Google OneBox in the SERPs are:
- Share prices:
- Flights
In the US, more search queries can be made directly in the Google search bar, where the results will appear in the OneBox.
Consequences for SEO
The introduction of Google OneBox has partially serious consequences for webmasters, causing a huge loss of traffic. By inserting the OneBox above the organic search results space, possible organic results on the first page of search results are reduced and users can get the desired result from Google OneBox. One then has no need to visit any other web portal. Queries such as the weather can only be done with the Google search bar. At the same time as a loss of traffic, websites using Google AdSense can expect a further reduction in sales.
Fundamentally in the areas affected by the Google OneBox, SEOs are well advised to push in strong long-tails to minimize losses on one- or two-word queries.
Google OneBox for business
With Google OneBox for Business, the search engine offers businesses the opportunity to retrieve relevant business data from an ERP or CRM system through an individual Google search. This data is then presented in a summary and is available to all users of an intranet.
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