Google Answers: Whether Audio Versions of Blog Posts Help with SEO

Does Adding Audio Versions to Blog Posts Help SEO? Here’s What Google Says

In a recent episode of Google’s SEO Office Hours, Martin Splitt, Developer Advocate at Google, addressed a question that many content creators and SEO professionals have been curious about:

Does adding an audio version of a blog post affect search rankings?

His answer? In short, probably not.

Audio Doesn’t Directly Boost Rankings

Splitt made it clear that while audio content can be a valuable feature for your website, it likely won’t have a direct impact on how your pages perform in Google Search.

Here’s what he said:

“I don’t think it will… I think it is a good thing for the user, though, so I would definitely do it—but not for SEO reasons.”

This statement might sound discouraging to those hoping for an SEO edge through multimedia, but there’s more to the story. While audio content doesn’t directly influence search engine algorithms, it plays a vital role in enhancing user experience, which can lead to other benefits.

Why Adding Audio Still Matters

Just because audio doesn’t directly influence rankings doesn’t mean it’s not worth your time. In fact, there are several compelling reasons to consider adding audio versions of your blog content.

1. It Improves Accessibility

Audio content makes your site more inclusive. For individuals with visual impairments, reading difficulties, or those who simply prefer listening to reading, having an audio version of your articles can significantly enhance their experience.

2. It Enhances User Experience

User experience is a critical factor in website success. When visitors find your content easy to consume and enjoyable to engage with, they’re more likely to stick around. Audio can be a useful option for on-the-go users who want to absorb your content while driving, working out, or multitasking.

3. It Encourages Engagement and Sharing

Even if search engines don’t directly reward audio, users might. When readers enjoy the content experience, they’re more inclined to share it on social platforms, link to it from their own sites, or revisit your content in the future. These user signals can indirectly contribute to improved SEO over time.

A Strategic Addition, Not an SEO Trick

Martin Splitt’s comments underscore an important principle in modern SEO: success doesn’t come from simply checking off a list of optimization tactics. Instead, it comes from creating meaningful, helpful content that serves your audience well.

Audio versions are a great example. While they won’t directly improve your rankings, they demonstrate care for user needs—which aligns with Google’s overall guidance to prioritize user-first content.

The Bottom Line

If you’re considering whether to add audio to your blog posts, the decision shouldn’t hinge solely on SEO impact. Instead, think about how it fits into your broader content strategy and how it can help you serve your audience better.

Adding audio is about accessibility, convenience, and enhancing the user experience. And when users are happy, they tend to reward you—by staying longer, engaging more, and sharing your work.

These outcomes may not be immediate SEO boosts, but over time, they help build a stronger, more trusted site.

So go ahead and hit record. Your readers—and listeners—might thank you.