As of early 2026, AI search engines like Google Visual Search and Bing Visual Search don’t ‘see’ images like humans do; they analyse the data *around* the image – specifically, the filename, alt-text, surrounding content, and increasingly, the image’s embedded metadata – to understand its context and relevance.
- Detailed Alt-Text: Current systems include advanced natural language processing, meaning alt-text needs to be descriptive and keyword-rich, going beyond “product image”.
- Semantic Filenames: Instead of “IMG_4567.jpg”, use “red-womens-running-shoes-melbourne.jpg”.
- Structured Data Markup: Schema.org vocabulary now features specific tags for images, helping search engines understand what the image *is* within the page’s context.
- Image Compression & WebP Format: Optimise file sizes for faster loading speeds – crucial for user experience and ranking – and utilise the WebP format for superior compression.
In 2026, Australian businesses need to be particularly mindful of accessibility standards (WCAG 2.2) when writing alt-text. Furthermore, with the increasing focus on local search, including location-specific keywords in filenames and alt-text (e.g., “Sydney Harbour Bridge sunset”) is vital for appearing in geographically relevant visual searches. The ACCC is also increasing scrutiny on misleading metadata, so accuracy is paramount.
Instead of navigating these technical complexities yourself, let ROI.com.au handle your image optimisation and broader AI SEO strategy. We can take care of all this for you. Contact ROI Growth Agency today to discuss how we can boost your visibility and drive more qualified leads.
