Google’s AI overviews are starting to look in search queries for a “small slice” of logged-in customers within the UK.
Google’s Search Generative Experience has been in testing as a Labs experiment within the U.S. since Might 2023. SGE has by no means been out there within the UK.
Why we care. SGE, AI overviews – no matter you name it – may probably change how individuals search and the quantity of natural visitors your website will get from Google. It’s nonetheless unknown how usually (if ever) searchers click on on the citations in Google’s AI-generated solutions.
Way forward for SGE. Google began testing AI overviews from SGE on a “subset of queries, on a small share of search visitors within the U.S.” as Search Engine Land reported on March 22. This appears just like the UK search visitors take a look at.
Some have speculated SGE may launch broadly at Google I/O, however Google has not confirmed a date. And Elizabeth Reid, Google VP, Search, has indicated there doubtless gained’t be a light-switch “second” when SGE replaces Google Search as we’ve identified it.
May SGE grow to be paid? In the meantime, Google is contemplating making AI-powered search options out there solely to subscribers, in response to a Monetary Occasions report. It’s unclear if that is particular to SGE or different AI search options. Maybe these “premium” options could be a part of the Google One paid bundle that includes Gemini.
Basically, the report indicated “traditional” Google Search would stay free. Advertisements would proceed to look alongside search outcomes even for subscribers. No determination has been made on whether or not or when it’s going to launch:
“Google stated the corporate was ‘not engaged on or contemplating’ an ad-free search expertise however that it might ‘proceed to construct new premium capabilities and providers to reinforce our subscription choices throughout Google’.”
– Google considers charging for AI-powered search in big change to business model (subscription required)
