Google has phased out Covid-era Home Activity rich results, previously displaying information about online events and classes. The company removed the structured data associated with Home Activities rich results, which had enabled the surfacing of online events in search results since August 2020. Google acknowledged this removal in the search documentation changelog.
Home Activities Rich Results: Google Ends Display of Online Events and Classes
Previously, Google utilized structured data for Home Activities rich results to highlight online livestreams, pre-recorded events, and other virtual activities in search results. Originally introduced in reference to the COVID-19 pandemic, this feature was a beacon of hope, helping users find things to do from home, including online classes and events. Detailed information such as viewing instructions, activity descriptions, and registration details surfaced via Google’s rich results, providing a nostalgic reminder of the past.
Recently, Google removed all documentation related to Home Activities structured data from its Search Central webpages. Instead, visitors are now redirected to a changelog entry that clarifies the discontinuation of Home Activity-rich results in search displays.
Moving forward, providers of online events are advised to use Event or Video structured data formats. Google assures publishers and businesses that while the Home Activities rich result feature is no longer available, there is no requirement to remove the structured data associated with it. Importantly, publishing unused structured data does not impose any negative impact, providing a sense of relief for those concerned about the change.
According to Google’s changelog:
“Removing home activity documentation
What: Documentation on home activity structured data was removed.
Why: The home activity feature no longer appears in Google Search results.”
This update signifies Google’s shift from displaying Home Activities rich results, signaling a change in how online events and classes are showcased in search.
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