On March 31, 2010, the number of pages indexed by Baidu decreased by more than one percent compared to the previous day, causing concern among major websites. The following analysis is provided:
Firstly, this is undoubtedly related to Google's withdrawal from the Chinese market. When we access Google now, we are inevitably redirected to the Hong Kong Google page, which indicates that Google has moved its operations to Hong Kong. Google's exit will inevitably lead to significant adjustments in Baidu's algorithm in order to better accommodate former Google search users. The increase in keyword search volume and the decrease in the number of indexed pages clearly illustrate this trend. It also shows that Baidu is becoming increasingly similar to Google.
Secondly, an important parameter of Baidu may have been affected by Google's exit. Everyone knows that PR (PageRank) was invented by Google but is equally applicable to Baidu. Even with the same keyword density or the same webpage, sites with higher PR always rank ahead of those with lower PR. Baidu is actually quite sensitive to PR. Every time Google updates its rankings, Baidu makes significant updates as well. Some webmasters even believe that Baidu might rely on Google's PR to determine a site's weight, though it places more emphasis on content text compared to Google. After Google's exit, the reduction or elimination of domestic servers will result in fewer crawls for domestic websites and significantly fewer indexed pages. This will interfere with the data Baidu relies on, leading to such drastic changes in indexing.
Thirdly, Baidu itself is making adjustments. Without a reliable reference point, Baidu must establish its own perfect external link weight system, akin to Google's PR system. However, due to technical immaturity at the initial stage, this will cause significant changes in the search engine's performance.
Fourthly, this is the last day of March, a Wednesday, and also the final day of Google's exit from China. Therefore, it is reasonable for Baidu to make substantial algorithmic adjustments to better adapt to the search habits of the entire nation. I believe this adjustment marks a revolutionary change in Baidu's search capabilities and will have a profound impact on China's Internet.
The above four points are my personal opinions. However, Baidu updates often exhibit a phenomenon known as "last glow," which reflects the immaturity of its technology. After analyzing the results of this update, if they find the handling unsatisfactory, they may quickly implement another "last glow" or even introduce new algorithm adjustments. It's possible that all the pages currently penalized ("K-ed") may return tonight or tomorrow, potentially with even more pages indexed. This is a transformation across the entire industry, so webmasters who have been penalized should not be overly disheartened. Patiently wait, and Baidu will provide a satisfactory response. After all, without Chinese webmasters, there would be no Baidu. Continue focusing on quality content creation. I believe that as long as your site offers useful content that meets the needs of both internet users and Baidu, it will thrive.