Skip links

AI Overview

Definition

AI Overview is a new feature in Google Search. It uses generative AI to provide concise, AI-generated summaries of search queries. It is designed to speed up the information-gathering process. The overview presents users with an instant summary drawn from various sources. Instead of clicking through websites, users can view summarised content at the top of the SERP. This new development in Google AI search is part of a broader shift in how users interact with content. Google is aiming to make answers more accessible and relevant to its users.

AI Overview is reshaping how we explore information in search results, impacting users, marketers, and publishers alike.

Elaboration d'une stratégie de référencement naturel

Context

Google introduced AI Overview in 2023 through Search Labs. This is a space where users can test experimental features before public rollout. It was originally named Search Generative Experience (SGE). Later rebranded to AI Overview as part of Google’s evolving strategy in generative AI integration. It was officially launched in the US in May 2024. It is available now in countries like the US, UK, India, Brazil, parts of Europe, and is gradually expanding across more countries.

With tools like Search Labs, Google collects feedback to fine-tune how AI-generated summaries appear in results. This shift signals a change in digital search habits. It’s paving the way for AI-powered search tools to become the new standard.

AI Overview reflects Google’s long-term vision to integrate AI programs into its system.

How does AI overview work?

AI Overview works by using generative AI models trained on datasets to deliver quick, informative summaries. When a query enters, the system scans high-quality websites and summarises the content.

This AI model is effective for complex or multi-faceted questions. It reduces the time users spend comparing many pages. Instead of navigating sources, users see a generated summary with links to the original websites for further reading.

Google’s Search Labs continues to refine this system. They are testing different formats and layouts with real users. The result is a dynamic, intelligent feature that adapts to changing search behaviours.

ai_overview_context

Role of AI

AI Overview relies on advanced AI tools to analyse, interpret, and generate human-like text. These systems use large language models (LLMs) to evaluate content. They make decisions based on quality, relevance, and user intent.

AI plays a role in tailoring responses to individual queries, prioritising clarity and brevity. With the power of Google AI search, these overviews cite reputable sources and highlight key information.

AI programs evolve, learning from user interactions and feedback collected through experiments at Search Labs. This helps the system deliver accurate summaries across a wider range of topics.

The ability to deliver value instantly positions AI Overview as a revolutionary step in Google search evolution.

Is AI overview trustworthy?

AI Overview is generally accurate and can be trusted. However, the summaries are generated by machines. Therefore, errors or misinterpretations can occasionally occur. Be particularly careful around nuanced and highly technical subjects. Google acknowledges this and encourages users to verify details by clicking on the cited links within the overview.

Can AI overviews be considered legitimate? In short, yes. It is a real, functional feature developed by Google. However, like all AI-generated tools, its reliability depends on continuous monitoring and refinement.

As with all AI tools, responsible use and human oversight remain crucial for credibility.

google_ai_overview

The impact of AI overview on SEO

Impact on website traffic

AI Overview has raised concerns among publishers about organic traffic drops. When Google displays detailed summaries, users may no longer need to click through to sources. This could significantly reduce traffic to websites that once ranked highly in traditional search results.

Although links are included in the AI Overview, they often appear below the summary, reducing visibility. SEO strategies now need to adapt to remain relevant within this new AI-first environment.

Sites relying solely on high rankings must now consider how to appear in or above these summaries to keep visibility.

An opportunity for quality websites

While AI Overview presents challenges, it also creates opportunities for websites with strong content. AI prefers sources that align with Google’s E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness) principles. As well as websites that comply with algorithm updates.

To appear in AI summaries, publishers must focus on producing structured, insightful content that clearly answers user questions. Google’s AI programs reward clear formatting, helpful headings, and factual information.

For content creators, this means prioritising value over clickbait. Being featured in AI Overview could lead to higher engagement, even if raw traffic numbers decline.

Impact on Google Ad campaigns

The introduction of AI Overview might affect how users interact with Google Ads. In particular, those located beneath or beside the generated summaries. If users find what they need in the overview, click-through rates for ads could drop.

However, the context-driven nature of AI summaries could help advertisers better align their campaigns. Marketers might find new ways to integrate product messaging into more informational content.

Advertisers should watch performance data closely to understand how Google AI search impacts ROI.

Shift in keyword strategy

AI Overview is changing how marketers approach keyword research and content planning. Because AI can summarise broad queries, generic, high-volume keywords may become less valuable.

As a result:

SEO teams will need to focus more on long-tail, niche, or highly specific queries that AI may not fully answer.

There’s a growing need for topical depth and content clusters to show authority in a subject area.

Content that adds unique value, such as personal insights, case studies, or expert commentary, has a better chance of being featured.

How can you adapt SEO strategy to AI overview?

Improve targeting strategy

To stay visible in the age of AI Overview, marketers must refine how they target search queries. Focus on long-tail keywords and intent-based topics that AI is less likely to summarise in full.

Staying updated on changes through Search Labs or the AI Overview website can offer early insights into how your content is affected.

Use keyword research tools to uncover gaps that generative AI may not address thoroughly.

Focus on organic results

Even with AI summaries, organic results still matter. Ensure your content is optimised for traditional SEO best practices like:

Websites with high authority are still more likely to be referenced by AI Overview search results.

Combining traditional SEO with AI-era strategies increases your chances of remaining competitive.

content_structure_seo

Optimise content structure

The way content is structured plays a significant role in AI visibility. Google’s algorithms, and by extension, its AI tools, favour content that is:

  • Clearly organised with H1, H2, and H3 headings
  • Written in short paragraphs
  • Supported by bullet points or numbered lists
  • Supplemented with FAQs

For example, answering questions like “What is a brief overview of AI?” in a direct and structured way boosts your likelihood of inclusion in AI-generated summaries.

Strong formatting supports both readers and search engines.

Enrich your content

Enhance your pages with elements that offer added value. These include:

  • Internal and external links
  • Charts or infographics
  • Author bios and source citations
  • Real-world examples or case studies

This type of content builds trust and aligns with how generative AI chooses sites to summarise.

Content enriched with context and credibility is more likely to be used in AI Overview Google Search.

Encourage engagement signals

AI Overview often reflects pages that prove strong user engagement. To boost these signals, aim to:

  • Add clear calls to action (CTAs)
  • Include interactive elements like polls or calculators
  • Use internal linking to guide users to related content

Higher engagement can show relevance and authority. It will increase the chances that your content will be referenced or summarised by AI Overview in search results.

internal_linking_seo

Conclusion

AI Overview represents a major evolution in how users interact with Google. From changing traffic patterns to altering SEO strategies, its influence is reshaping digital marketing. While concerns exist, there are also new opportunities for those who adapt.

If you’re a marketer, SEO specialist, or everyday user, understanding this tool is crucial. To stay ahead of changes in Google AI search, keep a close eye on innovation and respond with smart, strategic content.

By adapting to this shift, you can remain visible and relevant within the age of AI Overview.

Most popular definitions

seo
seo amazon
seo camp
seo e-commerce
freelance seo
seo friendly
international seo
local seo
multilingual seo
off page seo
on page seo
technical seo

vocal seo
youtube seo

Boost your Visibility

Do not hesitate to contact us for a free personalised quote

Notez ce page