Google released the March 2022 product reviews update on 23rd Mar 2022, around 12 pm ET. It was the third in the series, after the April 2021 original and the December 2021 follow-up.
It applied to English-language product reviews, with other languages planned for later. Google said it would roll out "over the next few weeks".
On 11th Apr 2022, 19 days after launch, Google confirmed the rollout was finished: "The Google product review update is fully rolled out. Thank you!"
The release doubled as a criteria refresh.
Google spelled out what strong review content should show:
- analysis of benefits and drawbacks with specifics on how the product performs
- evidence the reviewer has actually used the item and can describe what it is physically like
- unique information beyond what the manufacturer provides (such as original visuals, audio or links to other useful content)
- coverage of comparable products or what sets one apart
Google also noted that ranked lists and comparison reviews qualify. It recommended original images and cited test results as proof of expertise.
One record-keeping quirk: Google's current ranking updates history on the Search Status Dashboard lists this rollout at 14 days. Its confirmation at the time put completion at 11th Apr, 19 days after launch.
This page uses the dates Google announced at the time. For review sites that moved during the window, the criteria above are the checklist.
Reviews that read like a restated spec sheet are what the update was built to outrank.
