Despite persistent rumours, search firm Google has continued to use manual search controls and automated search algorithms to improve its search results.
That’s according to IT Pro Portal, which said that a blog post on ‘Launch.is’ argued that due to Google’s various antitrust probes, the company has “frozen” all manual search interventions.
This would have left all search marketing rankings handled by an automated algorithm.
However, Google’s head honcho, Matt Cutts, took to Twitter to deny the story – as well as leaving a denial on the blog post itself. He stated on Twitter: “This report is completely unfounded and false, and nothing has changed in our approach.”
A company spokeswoman also denied the claims in The Register, stating: “Computer algorithms are the most scalable way to deliver relevant results. However, manual controls are necessary to improve the user experience in very limited cases, such as security concerns, legal issues and spam.”
The Register also believes the blog post is false, “despite its claims that “multiple sources” supported its assertions.”
However, the media site didn’t deny that Google’s approach to search has changed in light of ongoing investigations. Since Google said it doesn’t “whitelist or blacklist anyone” in February 2010, Cutts has acknowledged the firm uses whitelists as well as “manual demotions.”
