(7)
In a recent video by Google's Matt Cutts, he said that geo-location is not spam. Cloaking and showing GoogleBot content that you wouldn't show users, is spam. But showing geo-location based content to users, while showing that content to GoogleBot, is not spam.
Here is the video:
This is not new, we've covered it a few times here.
In short, if you are going to geo your content, make sure to serve GoogleBot the content you would serve any user who is based in the United States. Serve GoogleBot based on the location of the IP address it is coming from.
Comments:
Diane
10/10/2013 05:20 pm
I absolutely agree that re-directing users based on location is NOT spam. its a service. people don't have to use these services or give away their location if they don't want. In my experience, I'm willing to give away my location and certain other bits of personal info, so long as what I get back is worthwhile. For example, I use Placed a ton because I love getting good deals in retail shops that are close to me, and I use Life360 SO MUCH because it gives me good peace of mind to know that my family is safe. That isn't spam.
Nikhil Chandra
10/11/2013 04:49 am
Is this worth coverage? What's new or for that matter news in this?
Love Energy Savings
10/11/2013 10:48 am
It's a shame GWTs constantly ignores your geo-location settings as it does many other things. Not entirely sure if the rich-snippets geo locator really works though...
Graciousstore
10/12/2013 05:08 am
Not new really but it is good that Google clarifies everything so as to leave no doubt in anybody's mind
xoxo
10/14/2013 12:53 am
not agree with you. looks like you rare see "this video not available in your country" messages. Also I not want to be redirected somewhere else, even to mobile version (if i not have choosen it)
Nikhil Chandra
10/14/2013 08:54 am
Okay! Got it.
xoxo
10/15/2013 10:47 am
Only Matt Cutts is SPAM!