Google has begun testing the Generative AI feature to summarize answers in Search starting from 2023, later renamed AI Overviews and gradually rolled out in some countries (Thailand not included yet). When unveiled, Google received numerous questions about the impact of using AI to summarize answers on website traffic, including the impact on website traffic and ad revenue on Google’s website. Google’s responses are vague, indicating that the list of links and ad space remains the same as before, although in a lower position than before due to AI Overviews being displayed first.
Today, Google has provided answers regarding advertisements because AI Overviews has begun displaying ads. An example Google showcased is Shopping Ads that directly sell products. Google has expanded the space to display related products to questions. For instance, if you have a grass stain on your jeans and search for “how do I get a grass stain out of jeans?” you will receive answers from AI Overviews suggesting various solutions before showcasing different brands of stain-removing products to encourage purchases.
Google states that these ad spaces will clearly be labeled as “Sponsored” and these product displays will provide users with convenience as they won’t have to search for products they need repeatedly.
TLDR: Google is testing Generative AI to summarize answers in Search, now called AI Overviews, displaying ads to provide convenient product recommendations alongside answers.
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