Accelerated Mobile Pages (AMP) is an open-source framework designed to optimize the loading speed of web content on mobile devices. This Google-backed initiative has become increasingly popular among webmasters aiming to improve user experience and gain better visibility in search engine results. However, like any technology, AMP implementation may sometimes result in validation errors that can negatively impact your site’s performance. In this article, we will discuss practical tips for webmasters to identify and fix common AMP validation errors, including the missing URL in HTML tag amp-img and other page-related issues.
Understanding AMP Validation Errors
AMP validation errors occur when your AMP HTML code doesn’t meet the strict guidelines set by the AMP project. These errors may affect your site’s search engine ranking and prevent your content from being displayed in Google’s AMP carousel. Some common AMP validation errors include:
- Missing or incorrect structured data
- Invalid or disallowed AMP tags
- Missing or incorrect attributes in AMP tags
- Incorrectly nested tags
- Disallowed CSS styles or properties
- Incorrect use of custom JavaScript
- Improper implementation of AMP components, such as amp-carousel, amp-sidebar, or amp-iframe
Identifying AMP Validation Errors
To identify AMP validation errors, you can use several tools, such as:
- The AMP Test tool by Google: This online tool allows you to enter your website’s URL and receive a report detailing any AMP validation errors.
- Chrome DevTools: Open your website in Google Chrome, right-click on the page, and select “Inspect” to access Chrome DevTools. Then, go to the “Console” tab to view any AMP validation errors.
- The AMP Validator browser extension: This browser extension for Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox provides real-time AMP validation results as you browse your website.
Fixing the Missing URL in HTML Tag amp-img
The missing URL in the HTML tag amp-img is a common AMP validation error that occurs when the “src” attribute of an amp-img tag is missing or empty. To fix this error, follow these steps:
- Locate the amp-img tag with the missing or empty “src” attribute in your AMP HTML code.
- Ensure that the “src” attribute has a valid URL pointing to the correct image file. The URL should be absolute (starting with “http://” or “https://”) and not relative.
- Verify that the image file is accessible and properly served over HTTPS.
- Revalidate your AMP page using one of the aforementioned tools to ensure that the error has been resolved.
Fixing Other Page-Related AMP Validation Errors
- Disallowed CSS styles or properties: Ensure that your CSS code adheres to the AMP CSS guidelines, which disallow certain styles and properties, such as !important or fixed positioning. Remove or modify any non-compliant styles to resolve the error.
- Incorrect use of custom JavaScript: Custom JavaScript is generally not allowed in AMP pages, with few exceptions. Replace custom JavaScript with AMP components or remove it altogether to fix this validation error.
- Improper implementation of AMP components: When using AMP components, ensure that you include the necessary scripts and follow the component’s documentation for proper usage. For example, if you’re using amp-carousel, make sure to include the required amp-carousel script and configure the component correctly in your AMP HTML code.
Other Practical Tips for Fixing AMP Validation Errors
- Always use the latest version of the AMP HTML specification to ensure your code is up to date and compliant with the latest guidelines.
- Regularly audit your AMP pages for validation errors to catch any issues before they impact your search engine ranking.
- Make use of AMP’s official documentation and community resources to learn more about specific errors and best practices for resolving them.
Fixing AMP validation errors is essential for maintaining your website’s performance and visibility in search engine results. By understanding the common types of validation errors, using the right tools to identify them, and following best practices for resolving issues like the missing URL in the HTML tag amp-img and other page-related errors, you can ensure a smooth and optimized experience for your mobile users. Stay proactive in maintaining your AMP pages, and your efforts will pay off in improved user engagement and search engine ranking.
Robert J. Smith is still early into his career as tech reporter but has already had his work published in many major publications including JoyStiq and Android Authority. In regards to academics, Robert earned a degree in business from Fordham University. Robert has passion for emerging technology and covers upcoming products and breakthroughs in science and tech.
