🧩 Drastic Drop in AI Overviews
Google’s AI Overviews, previously known as Search Generative Experience, have significantly decreased in visibility. Initially, they appeared in 84% of search queries. As of mid-April 2024, this figure has dropped to less than 15%. The change occurred around the time of Google I/O when the official launch of AI Overviews in the U.S. was announced.
🔍 Issues with AI Responses
The decline follows numerous reports of AI-generated responses containing dangerous and incorrect advice. Examples included suggestions like drinking urine and eating rocks. These incidents have contributed to Google's decision to reduce the appearance of AI Overviews in search results.
📊 Industry-specific Impact
BrightEdge data shows that AI Overviews are now more common in Healthcare (63%) but have almost disappeared in other sectors like Restaurants and Travel, where their presence has fallen below 1%. The tool is also more likely to appear alongside featured snippets and less likely with sitelinks or local queries.
🚀 Future of AI in Search
Despite current issues, AI's role in search is expected to grow. Jim Yu, BrightEdge Founder, emphasizes that while AI currently has shortcomings, it is improving in areas such as search quality and monetization. “The relationship between AI and search will accelerate, and the technology will become exponentially better over time,” Yu stated.
How do you feel about AI-generated search results?
