LLMs.txt Gets Google’s Approval

Google has revised its guidance on AI-focused SEO, taking a more neutral stance on the use of LLMs.txt files and similar markup formats. While the company still maintains that these files are not required for visibility in Google Search, it now acknowledges that they may be useful for other AI platforms and services.

Google Clarifies Its Position on LLMs.txt

Google recently updated its documentation relating to generative AI optimisation, refining previous guidance that many interpreted as discouraging the use of LLMs.txt files altogether.

Earlier versions of the guidance suggested that specialised markup, including LLMs.txt, was unnecessary for ranking in AI-powered search experiences. However, the wording was broad enough that some publishers believed Google was dismissing these files across all AI search environments.

The revised guidance now makes it clear that its recommendations apply specifically to Google Search and Google’s own generative AI features, rather than the wider AI ecosystem.

A More Balanced Approach

One of the most notable changes is Google’s acknowledgement that website owners may choose to implement LLMs.txt files for platforms outside of Google.

Rather than advising against their use, Google now states that maintaining these files is perfectly acceptable if they serve a purpose elsewhere.

According to the updated guidance, creating and maintaining LLMs.txt files will neither improve nor reduce a website’s visibility in Google Search because Google does not currently use them as a ranking or indexing signal.

This represents a softer and more practical position than previous guidance, which many in the SEO industry viewed as dismissive of emerging AI optimisation practices.

What Are LLMs.txt Files?

LLMs.txt is a developing concept designed to provide AI systems with simplified information about a website and its content. Supporters argue that these files can help large language models better understand and access important information.

The format has gained attention as businesses look for ways to optimise their websites not only for traditional search engines but also for AI assistants, chatbots and other generative AI tools.

While adoption remains relatively limited, many organisations are experimenting with LLMs.txt as part of broader AI visibility strategies.

Google Search Still Doesn’t Use Them

Although Google’s tone has changed, its core message remains largely the same.

The company continues to emphasise that LLMs.txt files are not required for Google Search and do not provide any direct SEO benefit within Google’s ecosystem.

In practical terms, website owners should not expect higher rankings, increased indexing, or improved visibility in Google’s AI-powered search experiences simply by adding these files.

Google’s systems continue to rely on existing web standards, structured data, and traditional crawling methods when understanding website content.

Why The Update Matters

The clarification helps address confusion that has been circulating within the SEO community.

Many professionals interpreted the earlier guidance as a blanket statement against LLMs.txt and similar formats. By refining its wording, Google has made it clear that while the files are not relevant to Google Search, they may still have value for other services that choose to support them.

This distinction is increasingly important as businesses explore ways to improve visibility across multiple AI-driven platforms rather than focusing solely on traditional search engines.

A Response To Industry Questions

Google’s update appears to be a direct response to ongoing discussions within the SEO and AI communities.

The company noted that the clarification was added to answer questions from website owners and marketers seeking guidance on whether maintaining LLMs.txt files could negatively impact their search performance.

Google confirmed that these files have no positive or negative effect on rankings, while also recognising that some organisations may wish to maintain them for compatibility with external systems.

Looking Ahead

As AI-powered search and discovery tools continue to evolve, website owners are increasingly looking beyond traditional SEO practices. While Google remains focused on its existing search infrastructure, other AI platforms may choose to adopt alternative methods for accessing and understanding web content.

For now, Google’s message is straightforward: LLMs.txt files are not needed for Google Search, but there is no issue with using them if they support other AI tools or services.

The updated guidance offers a more nuanced view of AI optimisation, recognising that the future of search extends beyond a single platform and that different systems may require different approaches.