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If you’re looking to save on shoes at Macy’s, there are some valuable coupon codes you should know about. You can start with 25% off your first order by signing up for their email list. During Black Friday, expect up to 60% off select footwear. Creating a profile can net you an additional 25% discount. Plus, there are savings of 35% when you buy three or more items, and up to 40% off on select women’s shoes. Want to learn more about these deals? Key Takeaways 25% Off First Purchase: Sign up for Macy’s email list to receive a promo code for your first online or in-store shoe order. Black Friday Star Deals: Enjoy up to 60% off select shoes during Black Friday, including popular brands like Nike and adidas. Extra 25% Off with Profile Creation: Create a profile on Macy’s website for an additional 25% off your next online shoe purchase. 35% Off When Buying 3 or More Items: Use a specific coupon code to save 35% on your total order when purchasing three or more shoes. Up to 40% Off Select Women’s Shoes: Shop for women’s footwear and get up to 40% off on select styles, both online and in-store. 25% Off Your First Online or In-Store Order If you’re looking to save on your first purchase at Macy’s, signing up for their email list is a smart move. When you do, you’ll receive a promo code for 25% off your first online or in-store order. This offer applies to a great selection of shoes, including popular brands that you might be eyeing. The discount provides an excellent opportunity to kickstart your shopping experience, especially during sales or seasonal promotions. Furthermore, to maximize your savings, consider combining this promo with other ongoing offers. As you shop for shoes, you might likewise come across a Macy’s furniture free shipping coupon or a Macy’s furniture coupon code free shipping, but these won’t apply to footwear. Up to 60% Off Black Friday Star Deals on Shoes As you prepare for the holiday shopping season, Macy’s Black Friday Star Deals present a fantastic opportunity to plunge up to 60% on a diverse selection of shoes. This sale features discounts on select women’s, men’s, and children’s footwear, ensuring there’s something for every family member. You’ll find popular brands like Nike, adidas, and Under Armour, allowing you to choose high-quality options at considerably reduced prices. Additionally, you can combine these discounts with other promotions for even greater savings, enhancing the value of your purchase. For instance, first-time online orders can qualify for an extra 25% off, making this an ideal time to shop. Plus, with free shipping on orders over $49, you can enjoy a hassle-free shopping experience. Don’t miss your chance to take advantage of these substantial savings during Macy’s Black Friday event, as it’s an excellent opportunity to refresh your shoe collection at a fraction of the cost. Extra 25% off With Profile Creation Creating a profile on Macy’s website can reveal an extra 25% off your next online order, making it a smart move for anyone looking to save on shoes. This promotion encourages customer engagement and loyalty, allowing you to maximize your savings on footwear purchases. Benefit Details Action Required Extra 25% Off Discount applies to shoe purchases Create a profile online Exclusive Offers Receive promotions via email Sign up for notifications Seamless Checkout Easy application of discounts Complete your purchase Ongoing Promotions Access to future deals Regularly check emails To redeem this discount, simply sign up for an account before completing your purchase. By doing this, you not only get instant savings but additionally stay informed about exclusive offers customized to improve your shopping experience. 35% Off When Buying 3 Items or More When you purchase three items or more at Macy’s, you can save an impressive 35% off your total order using a specific coupon code. This offer applies to a variety of shoe styles, making it easy to mix and match different pairs to maximize your savings. Whether you’re looking for seasonal footwear or gifts for friends and family, this discount provides an excellent opportunity to stock up. To take advantage of this deal, it’s important to apply the coupon code at checkout for the discount to reflect correctly on your order. Furthermore, be sure to check the expiration date of the coupon code. It’s vital to confirm you use it before it becomes inactive, as these offers can change frequently. With this promotion, you can improve your shoe collection as you enjoy significant savings at Macy’s. Up to 40% Off Select Women’s Shoes Macy’s is currently offering up to 40% off on select women’s shoes, making it an excellent time to explore a wide variety of fashionable footwear. This promotion includes diverse styles such as boots, sneakers, and dress shoes, catering to any occasion you might’ve in mind. Whether you’re dressing up for a night out or need comfortable shoes for everyday wear, there’s something for everyone. The discount applies to both in-store and online purchases, ensuring you can shop conveniently from anywhere. Furthermore, you can combine this offer with other Macy’s promotions, including extra savings through the Star Rewards program, maximizing your savings. With such a wide selection available, it’s the perfect opportunity to refresh your shoe collection at a reduced price. Don’t miss out on these significant savings, as they can help you step out in style without breaking the bank. Frequently Asked Questions How to Get 25% off Macys? To get 25% off at Macy’s, start by signing up for their email list, which often offers a promo code for first-time shoppers. You can furthermore create a profile on their website to access additional discounts on your next purchase. Keep an eye out for seasonal promotions and combine these discounts with ongoing sales events. Finally, using specific promo codes during checkout can improve your savings even further. What Is the TRIPLE10 Promo Code? The TRIPLE10 promo code gives you an extra 10% off select shoe purchases at Macy’s. You can use it on various footwear brands, boosting your savings. Just remember to check the code’s expiration date, as it may change frequently. Furthermore, verify you meet any minimum purchase requirements to apply the discount successfully. This code can often be combined with other ongoing promotions, enhancing your overall savings on shoe purchases. What Is Macy’s VIP Code? Macy’s VIP Code is a special promotional code that offers exclusive discounts to loyal customers. When you use this code, you can receive a percentage off your purchase, both online and in-store. These codes may vary and are often time-sensitive, so you should act quickly to maximize savings. To access these codes, consider signing up for Macy’s email newsletters, as they frequently distribute them through these channels. Simply enter the code at checkout to redeem your discount. Can You Use Two Promo Codes at Macy’s? You can’t use two promo codes at Macy’s for a single order. Only one code can be applied, but you can combine that code with Star Money rewards or other discounts from the Star Rewards program. Always check the terms of the promo code, as some may exclude certain items. To maximize your savings, consider shopping during promotional events and signing up for Macy’s newsletter for exclusive offers that complement your rewards. Conclusion In summary, taking advantage of these Macy’s coupon codes can greatly improve your shoe shopping experience. Whether you’re a new customer looking for 25% off your first purchase, or you’re interested in saving on multiple items, there are plenty of opportunities to save. Don’t forget about the seasonal deals, like the Black Friday Star Deals offering up to 60% off. By utilizing these codes, you can refresh your footwear collection as you keep your budget in check. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "5 Best Macy’s Coupon Codes for Shoes You Can’t Miss" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

New ChatGPT citation data shows a small group of domains owns most visibility, while broad, cluster-based pages outperform single-intent content. The post The Science Of How AI Picks Its Sources appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. If you’re building a cordless tool set for the first time, or replacing an older set that’s worn out, a combo kit is a good way to save money on several tools as well as batteries and chargers. Because batteries can be an expensive component to a cordless tool set, getting a kit that includes them is a good way to keep your costs down. If you’re trying out a new battery platform, you can expand your set as your needs change by adding new tools that will work with your existing batteries. Why the Milwaukee five-tool combo set is a good dealThe Milwaukee five-tool combo set is on sale at Home Depot for $299, 50% off its regular price, and it has some of the most useful tools they make. Milwaukee five-tool combo set $299.00 at Home Depot $599.00 Save $300.00 Get Deal Get Deal $299.00 at Home Depot $599.00 Save $300.00 Since a battery and charger set on its own can cost up to $200, depending on the battery capacity, getting five tools as well as two batteries with a charger is a big savings. Since the 18-volt Milwaukee batteries are compatible with all of their 18-volt tools, the set is versatile and can be added to without needing to replace the batteries. Since these tools are known for being durable, you can also save money on replacing worn out tools and batteries every few years. My set of 18-volt Milwaukee batteries have lasted at least 10 years, and some of them are going strong 15 years in. What comes with the Milwaukee five-tool combo set The Milwaukee five-tool combo set comes with a ½-inch chuck drill, a ¼-inch chuck impact driver, an oscillating multitool, a compact reciprocating saw, a work light, a three-amp-hour battery, a 1.5-amp-hour battery, a charger, and a tool bag. The drill and impact driver are the foundation of a cordless tool set, allowing you to drill holes and drive screws and other hardware for DIY projects. These tools are the basics for a DIY tool set. The oscillating multitool can trim material from metal to PVC and can perform plunge cuts into plaster and drywall. You can also use it with a sanding attachment to get into tight spaces. I used my oscillating multitool when I needed to replace my bathroom sink, and I used one tool with multiple blades instead of three or four different tools for the job. The work light might not seem like a crucial piece of the set, but if you’ve ever needed to turn off the breaker to an outlet you’re working on, or needed to see into a dark corner of your basement when you’re connecting a dryer vent, you’ll be glad you have a portable work light that you can aim anywhere you need. Why I recommend Milwaukee toolsI use Milwaukee tools in my personal tool set, and as a professional woodworker, I often rely on my 18-volt set for building furniture and installing shelves. I’ve had the same battery set since I bought my tools and I’ve only had one battery wear out—and that was after a decade of use, both outside and in a shop in hot, wet, and muddy conditions. Milwaukee has been making tools for over 100 years, and their line of cordless tools has been a trusted brand for contractors since the 1990s. Because their first cordless tools were made mainly for professional use, they developed a reputation for being long-lasting and durable. Now that their battery system and tools are more affordable, lots of DIYers use them in their home tool kits as well. Our Best Editor-Vetted Amazon Big Spring Sale Deals Right Now Apple AirPods 4 Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds — $149.00 (List Price $179.00) Apple iPad 11" 128GB A16 WiFi Tablet (Blue, 2025) — $299.00 (List Price $349.00) Sony WH1000XM6- Best Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones — $398.00 (List Price $459.99) Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 42mm, S/M Black Sport Band) — $299.00 (List Price $399.00) Blink Video Doorbell Wireless (Newest Model) + Sync Module Core — $35.99 (List Price $69.99) Ring Indoor Cam Plus 2K Wired Security Camera (White) — $39.99 (List Price $59.99) Fire TV Stick 4K Max Streaming Player With Remote — $34.99 (List Price $59.99) Amazon Kindle Colorsoft 16GB 7" eReader (Black) — $169.99 (List Price $249.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

When considering a background check, you might wonder if a reference number is necessary. Although it’s not a strict requirement, having one can streamline the process. Reference numbers act as unique identifiers, which helps reduce errors and confusion between candidates, employers, and background check providers. They furthermore guarantee accurate tracking of compliance documentation. Comprehending the role of these numbers is essential, especially when traversing the intricacies of background checks and their implications. What else should you know about the background check process? Key Takeaways A reference number is not mandatory for background checks but is highly beneficial for tracking and organizing candidate screenings. It streamlines communication between employers, background check providers, and candidates, reducing potential errors. Reference numbers create a clear audit trail for compliance documentation in various industries. Using reference numbers helps link relevant data to the correct candidate, enhancing the overall background check process. While optional, incorporating reference numbers can improve efficiency and data integrity in the hiring process. Understanding Background Checks When you apply for a job, comprehending background checks is essential, as they play a significant role in the hiring process. A Maryland background check typically involves verifying your criminal history, employment record, and educational credentials. Employers often conduct a criminal record check MD to assess any possible legal issues that could affect your suitability for the role. This process helps mitigate the risks associated with negligent hiring, guaranteeing a safer workplace for everyone. Before employers initiate a background check, the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requires them to obtain your written consent. This guarantees transparency throughout the process. In addition, some employers might conduct a reference check, where they contact your previous employers or colleagues to gather insights about your work ethic and character. Grasping these components can help you prepare for what employers will look for, making you a stronger candidate in the competitive job market. The Role of Reference Numbers Reference numbers play a crucial role in the background check process, serving as unique identifiers for each candidate’s screening. When you initiate a background check, especially a Maryland criminal background check, a reference number is assigned to help track and organize the screening. This number makes it easier for employers and background check companies to manage multiple requests efficiently, allowing quick access to specific candidate information during the hiring process. Using a reference number streamlines communication between employers, background check providers, and candidates, minimizing errors or confusion about applicant records. It’s particularly beneficial in industries that require compliance documentation, as reference numbers provide a clear audit trail for each background check conducted. By using these numbers, employers can easily retrieve and review background check results, ultimately making the hiring decision process more organized and effective. Types of Background Checks Background checks encompass a variety of screenings that help employers assess a candidate’s suitability for a position. One key type is the Maryland criminal background check, which reveals any past legal issues, such as arrests or convictions, that could impact hiring decisions. A criminal history records check in Maryland guarantees thorough investigation into an applicant’s legal past. In addition to criminal checks, employment verification is vital; it confirms the authenticity of job titles, dates of employment, and reasons for leaving previous positions. Education verification adds another layer by validating degrees and certifications claimed by candidates, confirming they meet job qualifications. Finally, a credit history check evaluates an individual’s creditworthiness, which is especially important in roles with financial responsibilities. Together, these checks create a detailed md state background check, enabling employers to make informed hiring decisions. Importance of Accurate Information Accurate information in background checks is crucial for verifying a candidate’s identity and history, which directly impacts your hiring decisions. When you guarantee data accuracy, you minimize the risk of delays, legal issues, and poor hires based on incorrect information. Using reference numbers not just helps in efficiently tracking requests but likewise links relevant data to the right candidate, streamlining the entire process. Ensuring Data Accuracy When you’re conducting background checks, ensuring the information you rely on is accurate is vital for safeguarding your hiring process. An effective Maryland background search requires verifying data to prevent potential hiring risks associated with false or misleading information. A Maryland state criminal background check can reveal disqualifying histories that candidates mightn’t disclose. By maintaining data integrity, you can identify discrepancies that may indicate dishonesty, enhancing your hiring process. Accurate information contributes to efficiency, reducing delays caused by disputes over incorrect data or the need for further verification. Ultimately, ensuring data accuracy protects your organization’s reputation and nurtures trust with candidates, creating a transparent hiring environment fundamental for long-term success. Impact on Hiring Decisions Inaccurate information can greatly skew hiring decisions, leading to costly consequences for your organization. With 30% of job applicants providing false details about their employment history, relying on unverified information can mislead you. A study shows that 75% of employers found discrepancies in candidates’ resumes through background checks, underscoring the need for thorough verification. Conducting detailed background checks not only reduces the risk of negligent hiring lawsuits, which can cost thousands in legal fees but additionally improves workplace safety by identifying candidates with troubling histories. Moreover, accurate background information can enhance overall hire quality, as companies that perform effective screenings experience 50% lower turnover rates, ultimately benefiting your organization’s stability and reputation. How Background Checks Are Conducted Background checks are essential for employers aiming to verify a candidate’s qualifications and background before making hiring decisions. The process typically starts by obtaining consent from the candidate, as mandated by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). Once consent is secured, specialized companies conduct the checks, utilizing various databases to gather information on criminal history, employment verification, and educational background. Depending on the job requirements and industry regulations, background checks may include searches for criminal records, credit history, and driving records. Employers often establish a clear policy outlining the types of checks performed, ensuring compliance with legal standards throughout the process. Many background check services offer automated systems, streamlining the process and enabling efficient tracking and reporting of results. By following these steps, employers can make informed decisions as they respect candidates’ rights and ensure a fair hiring process. When a Reference Number Is Useful Utilizing a reference number in the background check process can greatly boost efficiency and accuracy for employers. This system allows you and background check companies to track and retrieve specific screening reports tied to individual candidates easily. By implementing reference numbers, you maintain organization and clarity when managing multiple background checks, ensuring that each candidate’s information aligns accurately with their profile. Moreover, reference numbers improve communication between you and background check providers, allowing for quicker resolution of discrepancies or issues that may arise. In industries where regulatory compliance is essential, these numbers create a clear audit trail for each background check conducted, ensuring adherence to legal protocols. Finally, reference numbers help you efficiently manage large volumes of applicant data, greatly reducing the risk of misidentifying candidates or their results. Overall, incorporating reference numbers can streamline your hiring process and boost overall outcomes. Common Misconceptions About Background Checks Misconceptions about background checks can lead to confusion and misinformed decisions during the hiring process. One common belief is that a reference number is necessary, but background checks actually rely on personal details like your name, date of birth, and Social Security number. Many likewise assume that all background checks are uniform; nonetheless, different industries require specific checks based on regulatory needs, particularly in healthcare or finance. Some people think background checks reveal every past behavior, but they only reflect the specific searches conducted and relevant jurisdictions, meaning some records might be inaccessible. Furthermore, it’s a myth that these checks automatically verify all candidate information. Although they can confirm employment and education, gaps in history may not be addressed. Finally, background checks focus on objective data and official records, not subjective assessments of a candidate’s character or work ethic. Comprehending these misconceptions is vital for informed hiring decisions. Differences Between Background and Reference Checks When comparing background checks and reference checks, it’s important to understand their distinct purposes and the types of information they assess. Background checks primarily focus on verifying an applicant’s criminal history, employment, and education, ensuring safety and qualifications. Conversely, reference checks aim to evaluate a candidate’s work ethic, interpersonal skills, and compatibility with company culture, providing insights that are often more subjective. Purpose of Each Check Many employers rely on both background checks and reference checks to make informed hiring decisions, each serving a distinct purpose. Comprehending these differences can guide your hiring strategy effectively. Background Checks: Focus on verifying factual records like criminal history, education, and employment, ensuring workplace safety and compliance. Reference Checks: Assess a candidate’s work ethic and interpersonal skills through insights from previous employers or colleagues. Purpose of Background Checks: Screen out unqualified candidates and protect your brand by identifying potential red flags. Purpose of Reference Checks: Validate candidates’ skills and cultural fit, enhancing the overall hiring decision process. Key Information Assessed Comprehending the key information assessed through background checks and reference checks is vital for effective hiring strategies. Background checks typically investigate an applicant’s criminal history, employment history, educational qualifications, and credentials. These checks verify the accuracy of reported information and reveal any disqualifying criminal records. Conversely, reference checks focus on evaluating an applicant’s work ethic, interpersonal skills, and cultural fit within your organization. They provide insights into past job performance from previous employers or colleagues. Meanwhile, industry regulations often mandate background checks in sectors like healthcare and finance. Reference checks are widely used across all industries. Both checks are fundamental, as background checks improve workplace safety, whereas reference checks help you understand a candidate’s strengths and weaknesses. Legal Considerations in Background Checks Legal considerations in background checks play a crucial role in the hiring process, ensuring fairness and compliance with established norms. As an employer or candidate, you need to understand these key points: Written Consent: The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) mandates that employers obtain written consent from candidates before conducting background checks. State Laws: Different states have specific laws governing background checks, including notification and consent requirements, which can vary markedly. Disclosure Requirement: Employers must provide clear disclosure regarding the use of background checks, typically through a separate document. Adverse Action Process: If an employer opts against hiring based on background check information, they must follow an adverse action process, including a pre-adverse action notice to the candidate. Steps to Prepare for a Background Check Preparing for a background check involves several important steps that guarantee compliance and accuracy. First, create a compliant policy outlining your procedures to confirm adherence to regulations like the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). Next, obtain written consent from the candidate, as this is legally required before you can initiate any checks. Collect all necessary information from the candidate, including their full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and addresses, which are critical for accurate searches. It’s also important to partner with a reliable background check company experienced in the industry, as this confirms both accuracy and compliance. Furthermore, keep candidates informed throughout the screening process by providing updates on the status of their background check and addressing any potential issues that arise. Following these steps will help streamline the process and maintain transparency, which is essential for building trust with candidates. Impact of Background Check Findings Even though background check findings can play a crucial role in hiring decisions, their implications often extend beyond just the immediate choice of candidate. These findings can shape both individual careers and the overall reputation of a company. Here are some key impacts you should consider: Hiring Decisions: Negative findings, like criminal records or employment discrepancies, can lead employers to withdraw job offers, especially in sensitive sectors. Disputes: Candidates may challenge inaccuracies in their background checks, which can delay the hiring process. Legal Obligations: Employers must adhere to the adverse action process, allowing candidates to address negative information before final decisions. Company Reputation: The nature of background check findings can affect public perception regarding a company’s commitment to safety and integrity. Understanding these impacts can help you navigate the intricacies of background checks effectively. Best Practices for Employers To guarantee a smooth and efficient hiring process, it’s crucial for employers to adopt best practices for conducting background checks. Start by implementing a consistent process that assigns unique reference numbers to each applicant. This approach streamlines tracking and organization, making it easier to manage records. Ascertain compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) by obtaining written consent from candidates before performing background checks, which may involve referencing their unique identification numbers. Utilize a reliable background check service that efficiently manages these reference numbers, enhancing accuracy in reporting. Furthermore, train your HR staff to understand the importance of reference numbers for maintaining organized records and facilitating the review process during hiring. Finally, regularly review and update your background check policy to incorporate these best practices, assuring both efficiency and compliance in your hiring efforts. Frequently Asked Questions What Information Is Necessary for a Background Check? For a background check, you’ll typically need to provide your full name, date of birth, and Social Security number. This information helps verify your identity and history. Furthermore, you may need to supply previous addresses, employment details, and education information for a thorough review. Remember, legal consent is required under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) to guarantee compliance when conducting these checks. Specific industries might’ve extra requirements as well. What Is the Difference Between a Background Check and a Reference Check? A background check focuses on verifying factual information about your criminal history, employment, and education, whereas a reference check assesses your work ethic and interpersonal skills through conversations with former employers. Background checks require your written consent and may include extensive searches, like credit history. Conversely, reference checks are subjective, providing insights into your character and past job performance. Both processes help employers evaluate your qualifications and fit for their organization. What Is a Candidate Reference Number? A candidate reference number is a unique identifier assigned to you during the hiring process. It helps employers and background check Checkr companies track and manage your application efficiently. Typically generated by the applicant tracking system when you submit your application, this number allows you to inquire about your background check status accurately. Keeping your reference number handy guarantees organized records and compliance with background check protocols, streamlining the hiring process for everyone involved. Do Companies Still Require References? Yes, many companies still require references as part of their hiring process. They do this to gain insights into your work ethic, skills, and how well you might fit into their culture. A survey by the Society for Human Resource Management indicates that around 95% of employers conduct reference checks before making decisions. This process is especially critical in sensitive industries like healthcare or finance, where regulatory compliance and safety concerns are paramount. Conclusion In conclusion, during a background check, a reference number isn’t strictly necessary, but possessing one can significantly enhance the process’s efficiency and organization. It serves as a unique identifier, minimizing errors and confusion among all parties involved. Reference numbers additionally provide a clear audit trail, crucial for compliance. By comprehending the role of reference numbers, you can guarantee a smoother background check process, ultimately benefiting both employers and candidates in maintaining accurate and organized records. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "Does a Background Check Need a Reference Number?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Rebranded from Auvenir, the independent platform doubles down on AI, quality management, and underserved firms. By CPA Trendlines Go PRO for members-only access to more CPA Trendlines Research. View the full article

Rebranded from Auvenir, the independent platform doubles down on AI, quality management, and underserved firms. By CPA Trendlines Go PRO for members-only access to more CPA Trendlines Research. View the full article

Innovation isn’t a spark—it’s a sustained pursuit. Meet Google, Proximity Media, Google, Reddit, Unwell and Tubi—the teams turning bold vision into daily discipline, redefining what it takes to lead, create, and stay ahead. View the full article

Senators are discussing a proposal to end the Homeland Security budget stalemate by funding much of the department, including the Transportation Security Administration airport workers going without pay, but excluding ICE’s enforcement and removal operations that have been core to the dispute. The potential breakthrough came after a group of Republican senators headed to the White House late Monday to meet with President Donald The President. Senators said they expected the negotiators to work through the night hammering out the details and present written proposals for both parties to discuss Tuesday at their weekly caucus lunches. “All I can say is that the discussions have been very positive and productive, and hopefully headed in the right direction,” said Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer told reporters late in the evening: “Both sides are working in a serious way.” The sudden shift in the monthlong standoff comes as U.S. airports are jammed with long lines after routine Homeland Security funding was halted, leaving TSA understaffed during the spring travel season. Democrats are refusing to fund Homeland Security without restraints on The President’s immigration enforcement and mass deportation operations after the deaths of two U.S. citizens during ICE protests in Minneapolis. The President took the extraordinary step over the weekend of ordering Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers to provide airport security, drawing alarm from some lawmakers that it could escalate tensions. The contours of the deal under consideration would fund most of Homeland Security, but exclude funding for one main part of ICE — the enforcement and removal operations that are core to The President’s deportation agenda. Under the package being floated, ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations would be funded as well as Customs and Border Protection, but with new guardrails to position officers from those divisions in their traditional roles, rather than as they have been used more recently in immigration roundups in cities. It would also include a number of changes in immigration operations that Democrats have demanded, including mandating that officers wear body cameras and identification. Since so much of ICE is already funded through The President’s big tax breaks bill, and immigration officers are still receiving paychecks during the partial government shutdown, senators said the new restraints would also be imposed on operations that rely on that funding source, as well. “I’m going to be working through the night,” said Republican Sen. Katie Britt of Alabama, a chief negotiator who returned from the White House meeting hopeful they had a solution to “land this plane.” “We’re going to be working diligently,” she said. Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., who was not part of the group at the White House, said his understanding was that there was a “sense of urgency” coming from the talks. Coons described various choices before the senators at this point — from no money at all for ICE but also no restraints on the agency operations, to fully funding ICE but with more of the restraints Democrats have demanded, to a middle option of funding most of DHS excluding ICE’s enforcement and removal operations. That middle option is what he and other senators understood was broadly on the table after the White House talks. “First step is to get the proposal in writing,” said Sen. Angus King, the Independent from Maine. “I want to see exactly what that means.” Senators late Monday also confirmed Markwayne Mullin as Homeland Security secretary. He takes over for Kristi Noem, who led the department’s immigration enforcement operations that erupted with the public outcry and the funding standoff. Mullin provides a potentially new face for the immigration operation. During his confirmation hearing last week, Mullin touched on another key demand Democrats want — ensuring a judge has signed off on warrants that immigration officers use to search people’s homes, rather than simply relying on administrative warrants issued by the department. “This is significant,” Sen. Peter Welch, D-Vt., said about the progress toward changes. “Noem is gone. That’s a big deal.” Sen. John Hoeven, R-N.D., said he was hopeful senators could work things out. “Look, there’s a lot of different variables in the equations,” he said. “I’m hopeful we’ll get there.” Associated Press writer Seung Min Kim contributed to this report. —Lisa Mascaro and Joey Cappelletti, Associated Press View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. One of the more practical early deals in Amazon’s Spring Sale is the Amazon Fire TV Stick HD, now $16.99 (originally $34.99). That works out to about 51% off and marks its lowest price so far, according to price trackers. PCMag gave it an “outstanding” rating and called it the best 1080p media hub, which fits with how it performs—it doesn’t offer high-end specs but focuses on making an older TV feel current again without asking you to spend much. Amazon Fire TV Stick HD Media streaming hub $16.99 at Amazon $34.99 Save $18.00 Get Deal Get Deal $16.99 at Amazon $34.99 Save $18.00 This is the kind of device you buy when your TV still works fine but the built-in apps feel slow or outdated. You plug the stick into the HDMI port, connect it to power, and you are up and running in a few minutes. The remote keeps things simple. The remote keeps things simple. It has quick buttons for apps like Netflix and Prime Video, and it can control your TV’s volume and power, which means you are not reaching for a second remote every time. Alexa is built in, letting you press a button to search for a movie, open an app, or control compatible smart home devices. It feels easy to live with, especially if you just want something that works without much setup. In everyday use, it does what most people need from a media streamer. You can stream from all the major apps, and 1080p playback with HDR10 looks good on a Full HD screen. If you have a compatible soundbar or TV, it can pass through Dolby Atmos audio as well. The trade-off is performance. The interface can lag a bit when switching between menus, and it may take a moment to load larger libraries. It also sticks with Wi-Fi 5 and skips features like AirPlay or Google Cast, so it is not the most flexible option if you rely on those. If you are upgrading a main TV or want something faster, the 4K models make more sense. But for a bedroom TV, a guest room, or anything still running at 1080p, this gets the job done at a price that is hard to argue with. Our Best Editor-Vetted Amazon Big Spring Sale Deals Right Now Apple AirPods 4 Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds — $149.00 (List Price $179.00) Apple iPad 11" 128GB A16 WiFi Tablet (Blue, 2025) — $299.00 (List Price $349.00) Sony WH1000XM6- Best Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones — $398.00 (List Price $459.99) Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 42mm, S/M Black Sport Band) — $299.00 (List Price $399.00) Blink Video Doorbell Wireless (Newest Model) + Sync Module Core — $35.99 (List Price $69.99) Ring Indoor Cam Plus 2K Wired Security Camera (White) — $39.99 (List Price $59.99) Fire TV Stick 4K Max Streaming Player With Remote — $34.99 (List Price $59.99) Amazon Kindle Colorsoft 16GB 7" eReader (Black) — $169.99 (List Price $249.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

In an increasingly automated environment, paid search performance is constrained by a simple reality: Algorithms can only optimize toward the signals they’re given. Improving those signals remains the most reliable way to improve results. That sounds straightforward, but in practice, many people are still optimizing around signals that don’t reflect real business outcomes. Let’s dive into how algorithms function, how you can influence them, and where some people fail. How bidding algorithms actually work Modern bidding systems are often described as “black boxes,” suggesting they operate mysteriously. But that description isn’t helpful. At a high level, bidding algorithms are large-scale pattern recognition systems. Early automated bidding used simple statistical methods, including rules-based logic and regression models. Over time, these evolved into more advanced machine learning approaches using decision trees and ensemble models. Eventually, these became large-scale learning systems capable of processing thousands of contextual and historical inputs. The technology has developed significantly, but the goal has stayed remarkably consistent. Today’s systems evaluate signals such as query intent, device, location, time, historical performance, and user behavior, updating predictions continuously and adjusting bids in near-real time. Despite this complexity, the underlying mechanisms haven’t changed: Bidding algorithms identify patterns tied to a desired outcome, estimate that outcome’s probability and expected value for each auction, and adjust bids accordingly. They don’t understand business context or strategy — they infer success from feedback. This distinction matters. When the feedback loop is weak, noisy, or misaligned with real business value, even advanced algorithms will efficiently optimize toward the wrong objective. Better technology doesn’t compensate for poor inputs. Dig deeper: Bidding and bid adjustments in paid search campaigns Your customers search everywhere. Make sure your brand shows up. The SEO toolkit you know, plus the AI visibility data you need. Start Free Trial Get started with The signals advertisers can influence Paid search algorithms observe a vast range of signals, many of which are inferred by the platform and not directly controllable by you. These include user intent signals, behavioral patterns, and competitive dynamics. While many signals sit outside of our control, there’s still a meaningful set of levers you control that shape how algorithms learn. These include: Account and campaign structure. Bidding strategy selection. Budget allocation. Targeting and exclusions. Ad creative and asset quality. Landing page experience. The consistency and stability of changes made over time. These inputs shape how the algorithm explores and learns. They help define the environment in which optimization occurs. But they don’t, by themselves, define what success looks like. That role is played by conversion data. Dig deeper: Conversion rate: how to calculate, optimize, and avoid common mistakes Conversion data: The most important signal When performance plateaus, the first instinct is to blame structure, budgets, or creative. In reality, the biggest lever you have available usually sits elsewhere: conversion data. In most accounts, conversion data is the most influential signal you control. It defines the outcome the algorithm is trained to pursue and directly informs prediction models, bid calculations, and learning feedback loops. When conversion setups are misaligned, overly broad, duplicated, or noisy, platforms still optimize efficiently, just not toward outcomes the business actually values. This is why, at times, you can show improving platform metrics while your commercial performance stagnates or deteriorates. A common mistake is focusing on increasing conversion volume rather than improving conversion quality. Volume accelerates learning, but if the signal is weak, faster learning just means faster optimization toward a suboptimal goal. In practice, refining what counts as a conversion often delivers greater performance gains than structural or tactical changes elsewhere in the account. Dig deeper: Why a lower CTR can be better for your PPC campaigns Aligning conversion signals with real business KPIs Before any optimization begins, define what success genuinely means for your business. Paid search platforms don’t have intrinsic knowledge of your revenue quality, profitability, or downstream value. They only see what is explicitly passed back to them. Misalignment typically appears in predictable forms: Revenue is used as the primary signal when margins vary significantly. Lead submissions are optimized without regard to lead quality or sales outcomes. Short-term efficiency metrics are prioritized over long-term value. In each case, the algorithm is doing exactly what it has been instructed to do. The issue isn’t optimization accuracy, but goal definition. If an increase in a given conversion wouldn’t be seen as a win by the business, it shouldn’t be the primary signal used for optimization. Dig deeper: 3 PPC KPIs to track and measure success Get the newsletter search marketers rely on. See terms. Strengthening conversion signals with richer, more resilient data Conversion quality is determined by how confidently the platform can identify and interpret a tracked event. Browser-based tracking alone is increasingly incomplete due to privacy controls, attribution gaps, and fragmented user journeys. As a result, ad platforms rely on a combination of browser-side and server-side data to improve matching and attribution. This means that, for you, this isn’t just a measurement problem, as it directly affects how confidently platforms can learn from conversions. Stronger conversion signals are typically characterized by multiple reinforcing parameters, including: First-party identifiers, such as hashed personal data passed via enhanced conversion frameworks. Click identifiers that connect conversions back to ad interactions. Transaction or event IDs that prevent duplication. Accurate conversion values. Session- and network-level attributes that improve attribution confidence. When a conversion can be recognized through multiple mechanisms, platforms can match it more reliably and use it in learning models with greater confidence. This improves reporting accuracy and bidding performance by reducing feedback loop uncertainty. Dig deeper: How to track and measure PPC campaigns Choosing conversion goals Selecting the right conversion goal isn’t a binary decision. It involves balancing several competing factors: Volume: Higher volumes support faster learning. Value accuracy: Closer alignment with business outcomes improves decision quality. Stability: Highly variable values can introduce noise. Latency: Delayed feedback slows learning and increases uncertainty. Higher-volume, faster conversions often sit further away from true commercial outcomes, while lower-volume, high-quality conversions may better reflect business value but risk data sparsity. The most effective setups acknowledge these trade-offs rather than attempting to eliminate them entirely. In many cases, the optimal solution involves using proxy or layered conversion goals that strike a balance between learning speed and value accuracy. Dig deeper: How to use proxy metrics to speed up optimization in complex B2B journeys Practical examples of selecting and strengthening conversion goals Ecommerce optimization based on gross margin, not revenue For ecommerce, optimizing toward order value assumes all revenue is equal. In reality, product margins often vary widely. When revenue alone is used as the optimization signal, algorithms may prioritize high-value — but low-margin — products. A more effective approach is to optimize for gross margin by passing margin-adjusted conversion values via server-side tracking or offline conversion imports. This allows bidding systems to prioritize your business’s profitability rather than top-line revenue, without exposing sensitive cost data client-side. Lead generation with long conversion latency In lead gen models where final outcomes occur weeks or months after the initial click, form submissions alone can provide you with weak signals. They are fast and high-volume, but poorly correlated with revenue. Introducing lead scoring improves signal quality. Leads can be assigned proxy values based on known attributes and early indicators of quality, such as company size, role seniority, or engagement depth. These values can then be passed back to the platform via CRM integrations or server-side tracking, enabling value-based optimization even when final outcomes are delayed. Optimizing toward predicted lifetime value If you’re focused on lifetime value (LTV), there are two viable approaches: Where LTV can be reliably predicted within a short window after conversion, predicted values can be imported and used directly for optimization. If early prediction isn’t feasible for you, lead scoring or early behavioral proxies can be used instead. In both cases, your objective is the same: provide the algorithm with timely, value-weighted signals that correlate strongly with long-term revenue, rather than waiting for delayed outcomes that are too sparse to support learning. See the complete picture of your search visibility. Track, optimize, and win in Google and AI search from one platform. Start Free Trial Get started with Key takeaways for performance marketers Modern bidding systems are powerful pattern recognition engines, but their effectiveness is constrained by the signals they receive. The biggest performance gains rarely come from constant restructuring or tactical tests. They come from improving the clarity, quality, and commercial relevance of your conversion data. Conversion signals are the most influential inputs you control, and misaligned or low-quality setups will limit performance regardless of how advanced the algorithm becomes. Regularly audit your conversion definitions and ask a simple question: “Would you genuinely celebrate an increase in this outcome?” If the answer isn’t clear, the signal likely needs refinement. Improving conversion goals, strengthening signal quality, and balancing volume, accuracy, and latency aren’t optional. They’re among the highest-impact ways to improve paid search performance. View the full article

A giant cheesesteak running through multiple terminals at the Philadelphia airport might not solve the world’s problems, but it will make people smile. It’s National Cheesesteak Day, after all, so a little joy is necessary. In honor of this unique day, here’s some history on this lesser-known holiday. We even threw in some ideas on how to celebrate and make Rocky Balboa proud. Brief history of the Philly cheesesteak The cheesesteak is an American invention that originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The desire for something new struck two Italian-American brothers, Pat and Henry Olivieri, one day in 1930. The brothers ran a hot dog cart, but were craving some beef. They grilled that up with onions and put it on a bun. The result was the first cheesesteak, even though dairy wouldn’t be added until 1940 (thanks to “Cocky Joe” Lorenza). The hot dog cart quickly turned into a restaurant called Pat’s King of Steaks. In the 1960s, competitors such as Geno’s, Dalessandro’s Steaks, and Jim’s Steak opened up, further cementing the sandwich into the cultural zeitgeist. Suddenly, everyone in the city had a strong opinion on which establishment was the best. Perhaps the best publicity for the cheesesteak came in 1976. In the classic film Rocky, Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone) ordered the “whiz wit” at Pat’s. The world would want what he was having. What’s in a cheesesteak? At its core, a cheesesteak is beef, onions, and a roll. There are many variations of this. The beef can be sliced or chopped. You can order it “wit” or “witout,” meaning with or without the grilled onions. Cheese is another personal preference. Most people prefer either Whiz or melted American or provolone. No matter which you choose, this is a messy meal which requires lots of napkins, and inventive leaning to avoid spilling on your clothes. How did National Cheesesteak Day come about? Although nobody can know for certain, four high school friends in Philadelphia might have started this unofficial holiday when celebrating their upcoming high school graduation. On March 24, 1994, buddies Sean Mealey, John McGrath, Jeremy Hollis, and Ted Goldberg enjoyed a terrific day at Stoxy’s Steaks. These young adults wanted to keep the tradition going after moving away for college. They wrote letters, recruited new friends, and even made a website. Years passed, and somehow March 24 became the day everyone celebrated the cheesesteak. How is the Philadelphia airport celebrating National Cheesesteak Day in 2026? The Philly airport is going big this year, potentially bigger than ever before. Its PHL Food & Shops and the City of Philadelphia Department of Aviation are partnering up to break the Record for the “Longest Line of Cheesesteaks.” In the spirit of brotherly love, every restaurant at the airport that has a cheesesteak on the menu will participate. This huge cheesesteak is expected to span both terminals B and C. National Cheesesteak Day deals, discounts, and freebies But the best way to celebrate is through your stomach. If you find yourself in Philadelphia on the big day, there’s a showdown in the Northeast at the Metro by T-Mobile store on Cottman Avenue. More than ten restaurants will be offering samples to attendees, who can vote on their favorites. Participants include Del Rossi’s, Skinny Joey’s, Pat’s King of Steaks, Woodrow’s, Cafe Carmela, Campo’s Philly Cheesesteak, Cleaver’s, Stella’s, Verona Pizza, LaNova and Lucatelli’s. Beyond Philly, Capriotti is offering a buy one, get one half off deal. Grab a friend and chow down. Hot Table is offering its small cheesesteak paninis for only $5 in store only. Philly’s Best is offering $2 off its cooper classic cheesesteak from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Texadelphianation is doing a buy one, get one free deal—another great opportunity for friends. And, New Yorkers, rejoice! G’s Cheesesteaks at 6 Avenue B 10009 is offering free cheesesteaks from 1 to 3 p.m., according to its Instagram account. After your stomach is satisfied, turn on Rocky to put a cherry on top of your National Cheesesteak Day celebrations—as the character points out, even the big man himself gets hungry. View the full article

Zoox, the Amazon-owned autonomous driving company known for its whimsically shaped robotaxis, is expanding to new locations. The company on March 24 announced plans to begin operations in Austin and Miami later this year, while expanding its existing footprint in Las Vegas and San Francisco. In Las Vegas, riders can now access additional locations along the Strip, with service expected to reach the Sphere, T-Mobile Arena, and Harry Reid International Airport. In San Francisco, service will expand this spring to neighborhoods including the Marina, North Beach, Chinatown, and Pacific Heights, as well as along the Embarcadero—more than quadrupling Zoox’s current footprint in the city. The expansion comes with technical upgrades, including machine learning model updates aimed at smoother rides and more accurate arrival time estimates. Regular software improvements have helped to enable service in new areas as the vehicles become more capable, says cofounder and CTO Jesse Levinson. “For example, in San Francisco, our new geofence includes steeper hills, more dense traffic, places where you have to make more assertive lane changes,” he says. The cars have also gained the ability to operate in fog and rain, which will help in the push into Miami. For now, Zoox’s distinctive electric vehicles—featuring inward-facing seats and no driver’s seat or steering wheel—operate under a regulatory exemption from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that allows them to run free rides. The company is still applying for a separate exemption that would allow it to charge for service, Levinson says. Its fleet remains relatively small, growing from about 75 to roughly 100 prototype vehicles as part of the expansion. That is expected to change once Zoox begins mass-manufacturing the production version of its vehicles at its plant in Hayward, California. The company hopes to start later this year and eventually produce three vehicles per hour, enabling a significant increase in fleet size. Alphabet-owned Waymo reportedly has at least 2,500 automated vehicles in service. “A bit later in the year, when we start producing our production vehicles, you’ll start to see significant expansion in the size of our fleet in the cities we operate,” Levinson says. Anyone can currently request a free ride via the Zoox app in Las Vegas, though wait times can be long due to limited vehicle availability and the lack of fares. In San Francisco, riders must join a waitlist, which already includes several hundred-thousand people. In addition to its custom-built vehicles, Zoox operates a testing fleet of retrofitted SUVs staffed with human safety drivers. These vehicles map and test new cities ahead of launching automated taxi service. In early March, the company announced test deployments in Dallas and Phoenix, joining markets including Los Angeles, Seattle, Atlanta, and Washington, D.C. The test fleet has been operating in Austin and Miami since mid-2024, the company says. Zoox also announced a partnership with Uber that would allow Uber customers in Las Vegas and Los Angeles to be matched with Zoox vehicles. The rollout is expected to begin this summer in Las Vegas—likely after the company is cleared to charge for rides, Levinson says—and in mid-2027 in Los Angeles. Riders will still be able to book directly through the Zoox app, but the partnership gives Zoox access to Uber’s large customer base, including those who may not want to download another ride-hailing app. “We will continue to offer the Zoox app in all of our cities,” Levinson says. “But we have started to explore what a partnership with Uber could look like, starting in those two cities, and I think we’ll both learn a lot from each other.” Zoox is also rolling out new features aimed at improving convenience and comfort. A “Find My Zoox” option will allow passengers to customize lighting and trigger blinking lights on their vehicle, making it easier to spot in crowded areas. Riders will also be able to pair their devices with in-vehicle Bluetooth audio and automatically reconnect on future trips, Levinson says. The vehicles already support music playback from prebuilt playlists. Competition in the ride-hailing market appears poised to heat up, with Waymo also expanding to new markets, Elon Musk touting plans for automated Tesla taxis, and Uber recently announcing a separate deal to invest up to $1.25 billion in electric vehicle maker Rivian as part of its robotaxi plan. But Levinson says he imagines Zoox’s lead time in creating custom-built autonomous cars will give it an edge on rival operators. Still, Levinson argues that Zoox’s early focus on custom-built autonomous vehicles could provide an advantage. “As other companies might try to come out with their first purpose-built robotaxi, we might be on our second or third iteration,” he says. “Hopefully, those learnings will continue to allow us to have a meaningful benefit for our customers.” View the full article

Research finds that persona prompts "reliably damage" factual accuracy in certain kinds of tasks but work well in others. The post Research: “You Are An Expert” Prompts Can Damage Factual Accuracy appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

Egan-Jones has come under scrutiny for its ratings on thousands of private loans relied on by insurersView the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. Amazon’s Spring Sale officially runs from March 25 through March 31, but a few early deals are already live, and some are worth paying attention to. One of them is the Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS + Cellular, 46mm) in a Jet Black Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band (M/L), now $429 (down from $529), which is its lowest price yet according to price trackers. If you prefer something dressier, the gold titanium version with a Milanese loop is also a $100 off, down to $699 from $799. Amazon is also testing one-hour and three-hour delivery in select locations, as reported by our senior tech editor Jake Peterson, so depending on where you live, you might not be waiting long once you hit buy. Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS + Cellular, 46mm) Jet Black Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band (M/L) $429.00 at Amazon $529.00 Save $100.00 Get Deal Get Deal $429.00 at Amazon $529.00 Save $100.00 The Series 11 doesn’t try to overhaul what Apple already settled with the Series 10, in terms of design. Instead, this smartwatch leans into small upgrades that show up in everyday use. Battery life now reaches 24 hours, finally moving past the long-standing 18-hour ceiling, which means you can track sleep without planning your charging schedule around it. The display gets brighter too, hitting 2,000 nits, so it stays readable outdoors, and Apple’s Ion-X glass helps with visibility at off angles. It’s also tougher this time, with better scratch resistance, IP6X dust protection, and WR50 water resistance for swimming. And with the cellular version, you now get 5G connectivity, which makes leaving your phone behind more realistic for runs or quick errands. There are also software additions like background hypertension alerts and a Sleep Score, although some of those aren’t exclusive to this model. PCMag gave the Series 11 an “outstanding” rating and named it one of the best Apple Watch to buy in 2026, noting that its performance and health features remain among the best available. This is an easy upgrade if you’re coming from a Series 7 or 8, where the battery bump alone changes how you use the watch. If you’re on a Series 10, however, the case is weaker—unless you care about incremental improvements or the new cellular capabilities, especially when you consider how it compares in size and durability to Apple’s higher-end model in this breakdown of the Apple Watch Series 11 against the Ultra 3. If you do pick it up, it’s worth learning how to get more out of it with our guides and hacks for every Apple Watch user, since the hardware is only part of the experience. Our Best Editor-Vetted Amazon Big Spring Sale Deals Right Now Apple AirPods 4 Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds — $149.00 (List Price $179.00) Apple iPad 11" 128GB A16 WiFi Tablet (Blue, 2025) — $299.00 (List Price $349.00) Sony WH1000XM6- Best Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones — $398.00 (List Price $459.99) Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 42mm, S/M Black Sport Band) — $299.00 (List Price $399.00) Blink Video Doorbell Wireless (Newest Model) + Sync Module Core — $35.99 (List Price $69.99) Ring Indoor Cam Plus 2K Wired Security Camera (White) — $39.99 (List Price $59.99) Fire TV Stick 4K Max Streaming Player With Remote — $34.99 (List Price $59.99) Amazon Kindle Colorsoft 16GB 7" eReader (Black) — $169.99 (List Price $249.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

If you’re one of the legion of iPhone fans who can’t wait for the next major software update and all the new features it will bring, there’s some good news. Apple has revealed when you’ll be able to get a look at the iPhone’s next operating system, iOS 27—and you won’t have to wait much longer. Here’s what you need to know. Apple announces the dates for WWDC26 Apple has revealed when it will hold its next Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC). The conference, affectionately referred to as “dub-dub” by Apple employees, is one of Apple’s two major events throughout the year, and one of the tech industry’s most important. WWDC is an annual week-long event where Apple previews the next major versions of its operating systems to developers and the public for the first time. These are the operating systems that will ship on Apple’s new iPhones and other devices come the fall, and include iOS for the iPhone, macOS for the Mac, iPadOS for the iPad, tvOS for the Apple TV, and more. Yesterday, Apple revealed the dates for this year’s Worldwide Developers Conference, dubbed WWDC26. The event will run from Monday, June 8, to Friday, June 12. But the most important date is June 8, when Apple will hold its annual software keynote. This keynote will be the first time the public will get a look at the next major versions of all of Apple’s operating systems, including the upcoming iOS 27 for iPhone. iOS 27 may be a ‘less is more’ update Usually, Apple’s major software updates are packed with new features, visual tweaks, or outright overhauls. For example, last year at WWDC25, Apple showed off iOS 26 and its Liquid Glass visual design refresh for the first time—a major shift in the way iOS looked and operated. Yet rumors suggest that this year’s iOS 27 update may be more subdued than prior years when it comes to new features. Instead, Apple is rumored to be using iOS 27 to focus on little refinements and bug fixes across the operating system. As a result, many are referring to iOS 27 as a “Snow Leopard”-like release. Snow Leopard was the product name for the 10.6 version of Mac OS X that Apple released in 2009. The release was different from prior versions of OS X because Apple chose not to introduce many new features, focusing instead on bug fixes and OS refinement. As a result, even to this day, Snow Leopard was one of the most stable and beloved operating system updates Apple ever put out. In recent years, many iPhone users have lamented that iOS has become bloated and buggy as Apple prioritized features over stability. And so the possibility of a “Snow Leopard” like iOS 27 is extremely appealing to many longtime Apple users. Of course, that’s not to say iOS 27 won’t have any new features—but they are expected to be fewer than with previous releases. Specifically, the major new feature of iOS 27 is expected to be a chatbot like Siri powered by Google’s Gemini LLM. Indeed, in its WWDC26 announcement, Apple said this year’s conference will show off “AI advancements,” likely referring to the new Siri chatbot. When can I download iOS 27? While Apple has all but explicitly confirmed it will show off iOS 27 to the public on June 8, users will have to wait a little longer to actually install the new software on their iPhones. When Apple first previews a new iOS at WWDC, it releases a beta of the new operating system to developers the same day. This means if you are a developer, you’ll be able to get your hands on iOS 27 on June 8. But if you’re a general user, you’ll need to wait longer. About a month after Apple releases the first developer beta of the new iOS, the company releases a public beta. This beta is for members of the general public who want to test the new iOS as soon as possible. However, the public iOS beta isn’t a finished product and may have incomplete features and bugs. That’s why many just prefer to wait until the final release of the new iOS. That release usually happens in the fall, shortly after Apple’s second major event of the year: its iPhone launch event. If you plan to wait until then to install iOS 27 on your iPhone, you can expect to be able to do so around the middle of September. View the full article

Redemption requests across industry surge as exodus of wealthy individuals acceleratesView the full article

Choosing the right PPC channels starts with clear goals, budget alignment, and understanding where your audience actually converts. The post How To Determine What Paid Media Channels Are Right for You appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

Website migrations have a well-earned reputation for going wrong, with even well-planned migrations leading to rankings slipping, traffic dropping, or tracking breaking. But most migration problems come from small oversights rather than complex technical failures. You can reduce your risk with a staged approach. The checks you complete during staging, on launch day, and in the first few weeks after go-live often determine whether a migration stabilizes quickly or becomes a long recovery project. Before launch: Catch issues on staging Most migration problems should be found and fixed on the staging site. If issues reach the live site, recovery is slower and more uncertain. Set yourself up for success with the following tips: Keep the staging site private (even from crawlers) One common mistake is leaving the staging site publicly indexable. When Google crawls a staging environment, duplicate content can sometimes end up in search results. Rankings can fluctuate, and unfinished pages may end up indexed. Make sure you have blocked crawlers from staging site or protected it with a password so it remains invisible to search engines until the live launch. It’s not just crawlers, either. I’ve seen this happen with ecommerce sites. Customers found the staging site, tried to place orders, and the process didn’t work. This confused customer service teams, frustrated buyers, and created avoidable pressure internally. Your customers search everywhere. Make sure your brand shows up. The SEO toolkit you know, plus the AI visibility data you need. Start Free Trial Get started with Take benchmarks You want a baseline to help you identify real problems rather than reacting to normal short-term movement. Record organic sessions, rankings, top landing pages, indexed pages, conversions, and site speed before transitioning to the new site to define the “normal” you will compare the new site to. Identify priority pages Focus on pages that drive traffic, revenue, or attract links. These pages need extra care during redirect mapping, content review, and testing. Pay extra attention to internal links, redirects, and URL rules for these pages. Dig deeper: Website migrations: a plan to keep your traffic and SEO safe Review templates and content continuity Templates control titles, headings, metadata, canonical tags, structured data, copy, and media. If templates break, problems repeat across hundreds of pages. Check that: Titles and headings are present and accurate. Canonical tags use full URLs and point to live pages. Structured data has transferred correctly. Copy, images, and internal links are intact. This step protects more than rankings. It ensures the site still meets user needs and supports conversions. Make sure canonical tags use full URLs and point to live pages, as explained in Google’s guide on canonical URLs. This simple step can prevent bigger headaches later. Be intentional about URL changes Unnecessary URL changes are a common source of hidden damage. Changes made for design or CMS convenience often introduce risk without a clear benefit. Typical issues include: Adding or removing trailing slashes without a clear rule. Changing folder structures without reason. Inconsistent use of uppercase and lowercase URLs. One of the most common causes of duplicate URLs during migrations is inconsistent handling of trailing slashes. URLs with and without a trailing slash are treated as different URLs. Allowing both to resolve can create duplicate content, dilute signals, and complicate crawling. It doesn’t usually matter which version you choose, as long as the rule is consistent across the site. During a migration, avoid unintentionally switching between formats without a clear plan and proper redirects in place. The same goes for folder structures and capitalization. Don’t change what you don’t need to, and be consistent wherever possible. In one migration where we were brought in to rescue a site after go-live, every URL gained a trailing slash. Canonical tags only contained paths rather than full URLs, and internal links relied on redirects instead of pointing directly to final URLs. None of the changes were necessary, yet together they slowed crawling, caused confusion, and delayed recovery. Map redirects and compile existing ones Redirect mapping is one of the highest-risk areas of any migration. Existing redirects should be pulled from the CMS, CDN, Google Search Console, analytics platforms, and backlink tools so nothing is missed. Every legacy URL needs a clear, intentional destination. If pages are removed, redirect to the closest relevant alternative. If no equivalent exists, return a 404 or 410. Avoid sending everything to the homepage or top-level categories. Aleyda Solis’ guide to SEO for web migrations provides a strong framework for this stage. Decide what to remove and what to create Migrations are often seen as a good time to refresh all the content on a site. This can be done if all the stakeholders align, but it should be done methodically. Remove outdated content carefully. Where gaps exist in the new structure, plan new pages in advance and make sure they are ready to go live when the new site is. This planning avoids lost coverage or weak redirect decisions later. Verify Search Console access and settings Ensure the site can be verified after launch and that any international or country settings are correct. Align stakeholders early Pre-launch is also about people. Developers, designers, SEO, and analytics teams need clarity on responsibilities and deadlines. Many migration issues happen through missed handovers rather than a lack of skill. In my experience, most migration failures are preventable before launch, when fixes are safer and faster. I worked on one migration where SEO was brought after launch. The site launched with broken internal links, missing redirects for high-traffic pages, and inconsistent URL rules. Organic traffic dropped by almost 40% within two weeks, and several priority pages disappeared from search results. All of these issues were visible on the staging site but weren’t reviewed before launch. Make the case for SEO to be part of the planning process. It saves time, money, and headaches. Dig deeper: Website migration checklist: 11 steps for success Get the newsletter search marketers rely on. See terms. Launch day: Verify everything works on the live site Launch day is where preparation meets reality, and all teams, including SEO, developers, designers, and analytics, see the results of their planning. What worked on staging must now work on the live site. Even small oversights can immediately affect rankings, traffic, conversions, user experience, and reporting. Calm, thorough verification ensures the migration pays off and prevents small errors from becoming lasting issues. Use this list as a starting point: Test redirects at scale Spot-checking isn’t enough. Every mapped URL should redirect once and resolve cleanly. Avoid redirect chains and loops. They slow down crawling and delay signal consolidation. In another migration we were called in to fix, only the top 50 pages had correct redirects. Thousands of other URLs redirected to the homepage. Rankings dipped, and recovery took months longer than expected. Crawl the live site Run a full crawl as soon as the site is live. Compare results with the staging crawl to identify differences. Look for: Broken links. Redirected internal links. Missing pages. Server errors. Check internal links and navigation Menus, breadcrumbs, and in-content links should point directly to live URLs. Leaving internal links to rely on redirects increases load and risk. Verify on-page SEO and content Canonicals or hreflang pointing to staging URLs are a common launch issue. Confirm titles, headings, canonical tags, hreflang, copy, and media all reference the live site. Dig deeper: How to run a successful site migration from start to finish Confirm tracking continuity GA4, paid media tags, and social pixels should already be in place before launch. This ensures tracking fires correctly, conversions are measured accurately, and historical data remains intact when the live site goes public. Remember, the staging site should be blocked from crawling or be protected behind a password to prevent test traffic from polluting reporting. In one migration, we were asked to review after launch. The domain stayed the same, but a new GA4 property was created during the redesign. Historical data remained in the original property, while new data was collected in the new one, making post-launch comparisons difficult. Keeping the same GA4 property preserves reporting continuity, supports confident decision-making, and avoids unnecessary uncertainty at a critical point in the migration. Check robots.txt and index controls Ensure pages meant to be indexed are accessible and that noindex tags are only used where intended. If you use services like Cloudflare, it’s also important to check that your robots.txt and content signals are configured correctly. For example, Cloudflare’s default setting may block AI training access while allowing search indexing. If this isn’t adjusted intentionally, AI models might pull content from third-party sources rather than your site, affecting how your brand is represented in generative AI outputs. Submit the XML sitemap Submit the live sitemap to Google Search Console to support the discovery of new URLs. Review site speed Check Core Web Vitals and page performance. A redesigned site can still load heavier assets than expected. Launch day is about verification, not assumption. After launch: Monitor and stabilize performance Even the best-planned migrations can reveal surprises once search engines and real users interact with the site. Small errors that didn’t appear on staging can impact rankings, traffic, and conversions. Calm, structured monitoring in the days and weeks after launch ensures problems are caught quickly before they affect performance or user experience. Here’s what to keep an eye on. Monitor Search Console closely: Watch for crawl errors, indexing issues, and unexpected exclusions. Patterns matter more than isolated URLs. Check indexed pages: Expect some movement, but sustained drops can point to redirect or crawl problems. Track rankings and traffic against benchmarks: Compare performance against your baseline rather than reacting to day-to-day changes. Confirm redirects still receive traffic: Old URLs can attract users and bots for months. Ensure they continue to resolve correctly. Recheck site speed under real traffic: Performance can shift once the site is under load. Audit for follow-up improvements: Once stability returns, review internal linking gaps, missing metadata, and content that did not migrate cleanly. Calm monitoring and clear data prevent small issues from becoming lasting damage. Dig deeper: Technical SEO post-migration: How to find and fix hidden errors See the complete picture of your search visibility. Track, optimize, and win in Google and AI search from one platform. Start Free Trial Get started with What normal recovery looks like after a migration Even well-managed migrations can see short-term movement. Rankings may fluctuate, and traffic may dip before stabilizing. If redirects are clean, content is intact, and crawl access is clear, recovery usually follows within weeks rather than months. Ongoing losses usually point to structural issues rather than algorithm changes. Knowing when to wait and when to act comes from experience. You don’t want to react too quickly or too late. Keep a careful eye on your analytics, and you’ll develop the expertise over time. Website migrations succeed when they are planned, tested, and monitored at every stage. A clear focus on pre-launch, launch day, and post-launch checks protects visibility, performance, and confidence across teams. When SEO is involved early, and checks are clearly owned, migrations stop feeling like crisis events and become managed change. View the full article

Google was asked if Personal Intelligence in AI Mode will come to paid accounts across the world (not just the US - where it has hit non-paid accounts). Google replied... (Now is the point where you click on the article...)View the full article

Google is testing changing out some of the links within AI Mode to show as overlay cards, instead of take you directly to the website it is mentioning. This obviously will result in fewer direct clicks to those websites.View the full article

Google is testing encouraging business owners to reply to reviews using AI. There is a new option in the Google Business Profile dashboard that is showing for some businesses that says "Reply to reviews with AI."View the full article

One minute he threatens death and destruction, the next he says the US and Iran are engaged in negotiationsView the full article

In February, Bing rolled out new AI Performance reports within Bing Webmaster Tools. Bing announced a new feature for this report that connects the Grounding Queries and Pages views within the AI Performance report.View the full article

Fintech, where Peter Mandelson and Harvey Schwartz were board members, is given £2mn penalty by Bank of EnglandView the full article