There are expected to be over 11.5 billion mobile-connected devices worldwide by the year 2020. Everyday, more and more people spend their time on the internet using their cell phones or tablets. It’s a simple matter of convenience.
Google has taken notice and is working on a new strategy for their site indexing called Mobile-First. There are a lot of factors involved, but basically, if your site isn’t mobile-friendly (also known as responsive), your SEO is going to take a hit. When it launches (a specific launch date has not been announced yet, however it is expected by late 2017 or early 2018), websites that adapt to the device you’re using will take a higher priority in Google’s search results than a site that is “desktop only.”
Read more about Google’s Mobile-First SEO Initiative:
Google’s Mobile First Indexing Change: Everything SEOs Need to Know
What can you do?
What your current site needs to meet the requirements will vary depending on how modernized it is. The solution may be as simple as flicking a switch in the backend code of your site, updating the site’s “skin” or, in some cases, you may require a complete site overhaul (also a great opportunity to update your content!).
If you’re starting a new site from scratch, or already have one in development, be sure to ask your developer if it will meet Google’s requirements. You don’t want to start out at a disadvantage!