While Google dominates much of the search engine spotlight, Bing—now known as Microsoft Bing—has quietly evolved its own algorithm over the years, often integrating cutting-edge AI and machine learning technologies. From its early focus on structured data and visual search to major relevance-focused updates like the one in January 2023, Bing’s algorithm has steadily improved its ability to deliver accurate, intent-driven results. This timeline explores both confirmed and observed Bing algorithm updates from 2009 through 2025, helping SEO professionals and digital marketers stay informed and optimize accordingly.
📅 2023–2025: AI-Driven Search Enhancements
- January 18, 2023 – Major Algorithm Update
Microsoft confirmed a significant update to Bing's core search ranking algorithm, resulting in the largest jump in relevance in two decades. This update integrated advanced AI models to better understand user queries and deliver more pertinent results. - May 29, 2024 – Observed Ranking Volatility
SEO professionals noted substantial fluctuations in Bing's search rankings around this date. While Microsoft did not confirm an official update, they acknowledged ongoing testing and feature rollouts that could impact search results. - 2025 – Continued AI-Driven Enhancements
Bing's focus in 2025 has been on refining AI-driven search capabilities, improving natural language understanding, and enhancing user intent analysis to provide more accurate and relevant search results.
📅 2020–2022: AI Integration and User Experience Focus
- 2020 – Rebranding to "Microsoft Bing"
Reflecting its integration with Microsoft products and services, Bing rebranded itself as "Microsoft Bing." - 2021 – Enhanced Visual Search Capabilities
Bing improved its visual search features, allowing users to search using images and providing more interactive search experiences. - 2022 – Introduction of AI-Powered Features
Bing incorporated AI-driven features, such as intelligent answers and conversational search capabilities, to enhance user engagement.
📅 2016–2019: Technological Advancements
- 2016 – Open Sourcing of BitFunnel
Microsoft open-sourced BitFunnel, Bing's search engine indexing algorithm, allowing developers to explore and contribute to its search infrastructure. - 2018 – Emphasis on AI and Machine Learning
Bing began integrating more artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques to improve search relevance and user intent understanding.
📅 2009–2015: Foundational Years
- July 2009 – Launch of Bing
Microsoft rebranded its search engine as Bing, introducing features like search suggestions and related searches to enhance user experience. - August 2011 – Introduction of "Tiger" Indexing
Bing implemented a new indexing technology named "Tiger," aiming to deliver fresher and more relevant search results. - 2015 – Major Redesign and Local Search Enhancements
Bing underwent a significant redesign, improving its interface and enhancing local search capabilities, including better integration with maps and business listings.
Conclusion
Although Bing’s algorithm updates are less publicized than Google’s, they are no less important for webmasters aiming to maximize visibility across all major search platforms. With Microsoft’s continued investment in AI and integration across its ecosystem—including Windows, Edge, and Office—Bing remains a key player in the search landscape. Staying aware of Bing’s algorithm changes can give you an edge, particularly in niches where Bing holds strong market share. Be sure to revisit this page for future updates as the search engine continues to evolve.