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Google Lighthouse update alters PageSpeed Insights loading simulation
Google updated Lighthouse, changing how PageSpeed Insights simulates page loads, which can raise lab scores even when pages haven’t changed. The change impacts local businesses that track PageSpeed scores for SEO and ad performance.
The update modifies the simulation algorithm used by PageSpeed Insights, potentially inflating lab scores on unchanged pages.
This means reported speed improvements may not reflect real‑world performance, affecting decisions based on PSI metrics.
Local sites should compare field data in Search Console with lab scores after the update to validate true performance.
Review recent PageSpeed Insights scores against Core Web Vitals in Search Console to see if the new Lighthouse simulation is skewing your metrics.
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Source: Search Engine Journal · 2026-11-02
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