Google to End FAQ Rich Results, Full Removal by August 2026

Image credit: Search Engine Journal

Google officially deprecated FAQ rich results from its search functionality on May 7, ceasing their appearance in search results with a complete removal scheduled by August 2026.

This change marks a significant shift in how structured data influences content visibility and will necessitate adjustments to search engine optimization (SEO) strategies globally.

The technology giant plans a phased removal of support for FAQ rich results across its platforms. In June 2026, Google will eliminate the FAQ search appearance filter, the rich result report, and support within its Rich Results Test tool.

Further, support for FAQ rich results in the Search Console API is slated for removal in August 2026, according to statements from the company.

Websites can retain existing FAQ structured data without encountering issues, but this data will no longer generate visible results within Google Search, a Google spokesperson confirmed.

The deprecation follows a three-year reduction in the visibility of FAQ rich results. Google initially restricted their appearance in August 2023, limiting them primarily to government and health-related websites.

This policy evolution reflects Google’s ongoing efforts to refine search result presentation and potentially reduce clutter or prioritize other forms of structured data.

Industry observers, including SEJ, noted that the gradual reduction in visibility had already prompted many SEO professionals to de-emphasize FAQ structured data in their content strategies.

The full removal underscores Google’s broader strategy to control how information is displayed directly within search results, influencing user engagement patterns and website traffic.

Web developers and content creators are advised to review their structured data implementation and adapt their SEO tactics to align with Google’s updated guidelines for search appearance.

The company has not indicated whether alternative structured data types will gain prominence as a result of this change, leaving some uncertainty for future SEO planning.

Source: Search Engine Journal