Google has recently launched a new Carousel Rich Result, a groundbreaking feature designed to revolutionise the user experience in search results. This tool is particularly useful for showcasing products, local businesses like restaurants and hotels, and events in an engaging, horizontally scrolling carousel format. Currently in its beta testing phase, Google is actively refining this new feature.
Elevating search experiences with carousel displays
The Carousel Rich Result is poised to transform how lists are displayed in search results. This format is exceptionally suited for various categories, including local businesses (such as lodging businesses), products, and events. It uses the Schema.org hierarchical structure, categorising entities under Thing, Organization, LocalBusiness, and LodgingBusiness.
Each carousel element offers a concise overview of information from the linked webpage, including prices, ratings, and images. The arrangement of these elements is governed by the ItemList structured data provided on the website.
The importance of itemList structured data
To leverage this rich result, publishers must implement the ItemList structured data on their websites. This requirement ensures that all content within the ItemList is displayed on the webpage. Key rules include:
- The ItemList should be the primary container for the structured data.
- All URLs should lead to distinct pages on the same domain.
Adhering to these guidelines is crucial for an organised, user-friendly presentation of information and meeting Google's standards for the Carousel Rich Result.
A versatile and dynamic approach to listing
The Carousel Rich Result's versatility allows publishers to combine different entities, such as hotels, restaurants, and events, as long as they align with the eligible structured data types. These include LocalBusiness and its subtypes, Product, and Event.
For example, a webpage focusing on ‘Things To Do in Paris' could effortlessly integrate listings for diverse events and local businesses, each detailed with rich information and images.
Expanding opportunities for businesses and web publishers
This new structured data format also presents new opportunities for product listings. It supports detailed product information such as images, ratings, review counts, and pricing, making a webpage eligible for this rich result.
While this structured data doesn't guarantee a rich result display, it increases the likelihood of being featured in this new, engaging format. As the feature is still in beta, its capabilities and potential benefits are expected to expand further.
In conclusion, Google's Carousel Rich Result is set to enhance online search presentations, offering a more interactive and visually compelling way for businesses and publishers to display their products, services, and events.
