Google’s llms.txt Update: What It Means for SEO and How Businesses Should Prepare

The SEO landscape is changing faster than ever. Between algorithm updates and the rise of AI-generated search results, marketers are struggling to understand how to stay visible. Now, a new term llms.txt is making its way into SEO conversations.

If you’ve been wondering what it means and whether you should care, you’re not alone. Let’s break it down in simple terms and see how this new concept might reshape SEO in the near future.

The Growing Challenge: How AI Is Changing Search

For years, SEO has focused on optimizing for Google Search ranking high on SERPs, using keywords wisely, and building backlinks. But AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Perplexity are changing the way people find information.

Instead of visiting websites, users are now getting direct answers from AI. This shift means brands risk losing visibility if AI systems don’t pull data from their websites.

That’s where llms.txt enters the picture.

What Exactly Is llms.txt?

The llms.txt file short for Large Language Models Source file is a proposed standard that helps AI systems understand which pages on your website contain reliable, factual information.

Just like robots.txt tells Google which pages to crawl, llms.txt tells AI models which pages they can “learn” from.

Example: If your business publishes expert blogs or industry insights, you can list those URLs in llms.txt. This way, AI tools might consider your site’s content when generating answers giving your brand more exposure, even outside traditional search results.

Why Businesses Are Confused (and Concerned)

Most business owners are asking the same questions:
• Will this affect my Google ranking?
• Should I add llms.txt to my website right now?
• What if I do nothing will AI ignore my site?

Here’s the truth Google hasn’t officially implemented llms.txt yet. Even John Mueller from Google confirmed that no AI systems currently use it.
However, that doesn’t mean it’s irrelevant. The SEO community believes it could play a major role in the future, especially as AI-driven search becomes the norm.

So, What Should You Do Right Now?

If you manage a brand or business website, here’s how you can prepare without overreacting:

1. Focus on credible, factual content. AI prefers reliable data sources so make your blogs and guides genuinely helpful, not keyword-stuffed.

2. Monitor AI search trends. Keep an eye on tools like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Gemini to see how they’re sourcing content.

3. Experiment safely. You can create an llms.txt file listing your valuable pages it won’t harm your SEO, and might future-proof your site.

4. Stay updated. Google’s policies and AI integrations evolve quickly. Following trusted digital marketing resources helps you act at the right time.

How Brew My Brand Can Help (Gently Speaking)

At Brew My Brand, we understand that most businesses don’t have the time or expertise to track every AI or SEO update. Our role isn’t just about optimizing keywords it’s about helping brands stay visible in a changing digital world.
We guide businesses on how to adapt content strategies, test new standards like llms.txt, and ensure your brand remains relevant whether in Google Search or in AI-generated answers.

Final Takeaway

The llms.txt update isn’t a game-changer yet but it’s a warning sign that SEO is evolving beyond traditional search. AI is shaping how people find, trust, and engage with information.
Businesses that start preparing today by focusing on valuable content and staying informed will be ready when the shift happens.
And that’s what smart marketing in 2025 is all about: staying informed, not afraid.