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For months, Google repeatedly stated that the LLMs.txt file is unnecessary, rarely used, and not something the company plans to support or rely on. In fact, Google even suggested that if anyone uses it, they should probably consider noindexing the file.
But in an unexpected twist, Google Adds LLMs.txt to its own Search Developer Docs portal.
You can find the file here: developers.google.com/search/docs/llms.txt.
Google Adds LLMs.txt — What’s Inside the File?
The file quietly appeared in Google’s developer directory, and its presence immediately raised eyebrows in the SEO community. A screenshot shared online shows entries inside the file—leaving everyone wondering:
- Is this a sudden soft endorsement?
- Is Google testing something internally?
- Or… is this Google being playful?
The Discovery That Sparked a Conversation
This unexpected upload was spotted by SEO expert Lidia Infante, who quickly posted about it on Bluesky. She then tagged John Mueller from Google, asking:
“Is this an endorsement of llms.txt or are you trolling us, John?”
John’s reply?
A cryptic:
“hmmn :-/”
This only intensified the curiosity.
Is Google Trolling… Or Testing Something New?
The appearance of LLMs.txt contradicts Google’s earlier messaging, making marketers question what’s really happening behind the scenes.
Here are the possible explanations:
💡 1. Internal Experimentation
Google may be quietly experimenting with how LLMs.txt works in real environments—even if they don’t plan to adopt it publicly (yet).
🤫 2. Documentation Consistency
Google often adds placeholder or example files to guide developers. This may simply be part of that effort.
😄 3. Light-hearted Trolling
Anyone who follows John Mueller knows he occasionally likes subtle humor. This could be one of those moments.
🧪 4. Preparing for Future Use
Even though Google publicly dismisses LLMs.txt, the industry is moving toward AI transparency standards. Google may be anticipating this shift.
Why This Matters for SEOs and Publishers
If Google Adds LLMs.txt to an official portal, it raises important strategic questions:
- Should publishers reconsider adding their own LLMs.txt file?
- Is Google preparing to index or read such files later?
- Could this signal a future requirement for AI transparency?
At the very least, it shows that Google is paying attention.
Community Reactions Are Already Growing
The SEO community loves unexpected Google behavior—and this one created buzz instantly:
- Some believe it’s a test.
- Others think it’s a hint of upcoming policy updates.
- A few think it’s just Google poking fun at the LLMs.txt hype.
Whatever the case, the discussion has only just begun.
Conclusion – Mixed Signals, Clear Curiosity
Whether intentional or accidental, the moment Google Adds LLMs.txt to its Search Developer Docs portal, it sends a message.
Perhaps not a clear one—but enough to make developers, SEOs, and AI professionals stop and think.
Is this a quiet endorsement? A warning? A joke?
For now, Google remains silent… except for a mysterious “hmmn :-/”.
