Hajra Naz
Adding an audio version of a blog post will not lift its Google rankings on its own. Google’s Martin Splitt has said as much, and the reasoning is simple: search engines rank the text on the page, not the recording attached to it. Audio still earns its place because it keeps people on the page longer, makes content usable for people who cannot or prefer not to read, and gives you something to share on podcast apps. Those are user benefits that can help rankings indirectly, which is the same logic behind most SEO techniques that grow organic traffic without gaming the algorithm.
In a recent SEO office hours video, Google Developer Advocate Martin Splitt addressed whether adding an audio version of a blog post could improve search rankings.
Does Audio Content Boost SEO?
The short answer: Probably not.
Splitt explained:
“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.”
While audio content doesn’t directly influence search rankings, it still offers valuable benefits.
Why Audio Blog Posts Still Matter
Even if Google doesn’t rank audio-enhanced blogs higher, adding an audio version can improve accessibility and engagement:
✔ Reaches a broader audience – Ideal for users who prefer listening over reading, including those with visual impairments.
✔ Boosts engagement – A better user experience can lead to longer time on site, more shares, and backlinks—all of which can indirectly help SEO.
Read More: Here are 7 benefits of converting articles to audio
Key Takeaway
Creating excellent content that benefits your audience is more important to SEO than ranking factors alone. Don’t let the fact that adding audio doesn’t immediately improve your ranking deter you from doing so.
Adding audio to your blog improves accessibility and engagement, and when people enjoy their experience, positive things usually happen.
Further reading on this site
- Why simple SEO tactics will not work for lasting AI search visibility
- How to adapt your SEO strategy for AI-powered search
