We’re making some important updates to how product data is handled with the new Google Content API. Here’s a quick summary of the key changes that will affect how you manage your Google Shopping product listings.
1. One Simple Template
The Google Content API now uses a single template for all your product data. This simplifies the process and eliminates the need for multiple templates. All necessary fields are included in this one template, so you won’t have to worry about managing different versions.
2. Updated Field Names
You might notice that some of the field names look different from what you’re used to. This is part of the new system, and it's important not to change these field names to ensure everything works correctly.
3. Custom Product Attributes
You can now easily add custom attributes (like specific product details or features) using a special section in the template. This makes it simpler to include extra information about your products without complicating things.
4. Shipping Information
Shipping details are now presented more clearly. You’ll be able to manage shipping costs, delivery times, and countries separately, giving you more control over how shipping information appears for each product.
5. Stock & Availability
There are now clearer fields for managing your product stock and availability. If you are setting any rules to affect availabililty or stock, you will need to make sure that these are mirrored across Quantity, sellOnGoogleQuantity and Availability.
6. Product Details
There’s a new way to handle product details, allowing you to structure things like product descriptions, sizes, and features in a more organized way. This makes it easier to showcase your products accurately.
7. Certifications
If your products require certifications (such as safety or quality certifications), you can now add these details directly to your listings. This feature is currently most relevant for merchants in Europe but can be used by others as well.
8. Multiple Values for Certain Fields
Any field where the name ends with '.*' will allow you to add multiple pieces of information, such as extra product images or additional labels. These fields can now handle several values at once, making it easier to add all relevant details about your product. The expected delimiter (like NVA's) is a double semi-colon ';;'.
9. Units of Measurement
Certain product details, like weight, will now have a field for both a value and a unit of measurement. For example, if you’re adding product weight, you’ll need to specify both the weight (e.g., 100) and the unit (e.g., kg).
10. Complex Objects/Attributes
There are a number of complex objects within the API Template. These are broken down into mutliple iterations of the attribute breaking out their various sub-attributes.
Taking the example of 'Loyalty Program' this is now supported from the following fields:
- loyaltyProgram.programLabel
- loyaltyProgram.tierLabel
- loyaltyProgram.price
- loyaltyProgram.cashbackForFutureUse
- loyaltyProgram.loyaltyPoints
- loyaltyProgram.memberPriceEffectiveDate
Each field just needs to be filled with the corresponding value that each sub-attribute expects.
If you have any questions or need help with these updates, feel free to contact our Enablement Team. We’re here to support you through the transition!