June 12, 2025 — Mountain View, CA — Google announced an important update to its Search platform, aimed at simplifying search results and reinforcing user trust. As part of this initiative, the tech giant will phase out several underutilized structured data types that no longer provide significant value to users.
Henry Hsy, Google’s Search Product Manager, explained, “This change is part of our ongoing efforts to simplify and improve Search. These features were rarely used and are being deprecated to help focus on those that provide the most value.”
The update reflects Google’s broader strategy to streamline its tools and enhance search clarity by prioritizing only the most impactful features.
Although this is not a sweeping overhaul, the move has sparked discussions within the digital marketing community about the future direction of search technology.
1. Structured Data Types Being Phased Out
Structured Data Changes 2025
Google will gradually discontinue support for the following structured data formats in Search results:
- Book Actions
- Course Info
- Claim Review
- Estimated Salary
- Learning Video
- Special Announcement
- Vehicle Listing
2. Why Google Is Streamlining Search Features
Structured data’s value is being redefined again!
Google stresses that structured data is a tool to improve search and not an end in itself. The company will phase out support for certain structured data types that no longer enhance the search experience.
As a result, websites using these deprecated markups will see their content displayed in a simpler, standard format without enhanced visual features.
This move aligns with Google’s ongoing goal to make Search faster, clearer, and more useful for users.
3. Impact on Website Visibility and Rich Results
Websites using the affected structured data don’t need to panic—rankings won’t be impacted.
What’s changing is the display!
Search result appearance changes imply that it will no longer show the enhanced visual elements (rich results) for the deprecated markups. Pages will still be indexed and ranked normally.
It’s important to note that use of these structured data types outside of Google Search remains unaffected. Websites can continue using these markups for other purposes such as internal organization, third-party platforms, or other search engines.
4. What This Means for Webmasters
Google reassures site owners that no immediate action is required, as search rankings will not be impacted.
However, it encourages webmasters to review their structured data implementations to identify deprecated types and either remove or repurpose them if no longer needed.
Continuing to implement supported schema types that boost search visibility is advised.
Webmasters should also monitor Google Search Console for any messages related to this update.
5. Preparing for the Future of Search
This update signals a shift toward a more streamlined, user-focused Search experience. Experts advise focusing on structured data that delivers clear user benefits and aligns with Google’s evolving standards, including new AI-powered features such as Google’s Search Generative Experience (SGE).
Regular audits to clean up outdated markup and adherence to Google’s latest guidelines will help websites stay competitive in the ever-changing search landscape.