Google has removed the option to display 100 results per page in its search engine, creating difficulties for both its own Search Console and third-party tracking tools. The change, which began late last week, has left many users struggling to make sense of their ranking positions and other search metrics.
Previously, analysts and software providers could use the “&num=100” parameter in Google’s search URL to retrieve a hundred results in a single query. This made it cost-effective and straightforward for third-party rank trackers to collect large sets of data at once. However, the feature no longer works, forcing tools to gather data in sets of ten results per page instead. This makes the process far more resource-intensive and, in many cases, has resulted in incomplete or inaccurate data reporting.
Third-party tools face disruptions
Most rank-tracking platforms relied on the ability to fetch 100 results in one go. Without this option, they must adapt their systems to pull smaller batches, which would multiply their workload tenfold. Several providers have already confirmed that their reporting tools are experiencing issues. Some are still working on solutions, while others have yet to acknowledge the change publicly.
Industry observers note that the data currently being presented by these platforms often appears incomplete or inconsistent. Reports show missing information or fluctuations that do not align with normal search patterns.
In response, companies including Semrush and Accuranker have issued statements confirming that they are aware of the disruption and are working to address it. Both tools have acknowledged the impact on their ranking data and pledged to update users once stable solutions are in place.
Search Console reports were also affected
It is not only third-party platforms that have been impacted. Many users have also reported anomalies in Google Search Console’s performance data. Specifically, there has been a sharp decline in desktop impressions alongside a notable rise in average position figures.
SEO consultant Brodie Clark highlighted the issue, stating: “Either way, if you’ve just checked GSC and are noticing a significant drop in overall impressions in the past couple of days of data, you’re not alone.” He shared a chart illustrating the sudden dip, which has raised questions among search professionals about the accuracy of Google’s reporting during this period.
At present, it remains unclear whether the change to the 100 results per page setting is directly linked to the fluctuations in Search Console data. Some experts speculate that the long-standing use of scrapers could have contributed to distorted reporting, although this theory has not been confirmed.
Uncertainty over Google’s intentions
Google has yet to clarify whether the removal of the 100-results-per-page feature was intentional or the result of a technical error. Industry specialists are seeking more information from the company on whether this is a permanent adjustment or a temporary glitch.
Until further clarity is provided, businesses and SEO professionals are being advised to treat their ranking and impression data with caution. Analysts recommend keeping these issues in mind when reviewing organic performance metrics in the coming days.
For now, the industry is watching closely to see how Google responds and whether tracking providers can adapt to the new conditions without compromising data reliability.
