What you need to know
- Google is rolling out several updates for Search AI (AI Mode and AI Overviews) to help fuel user confidence when searching.
- Search AI will now feature inline source links higher in responses, while also displaying “more engaging” links with thumbnail photos.
- Timely news articles in Search AI will be housed in a carousel for quicker perusal.
AI Mode and AI Overviews are two prominent features in Google Search nowadays, but they’re far from flawless. Google states it’s rolling out updates to improve its inline source links.
This morning (Oct. 15), Google announced that it’s rolling out updates to how AI Mode and AI Overviews help users discover the right information. No matter which feature you’re using, Google’s AI offers links back to its sources; however, it’s never been perfect. According to the post, Google is moving its inline links “higher up in responses more frequently.”
Users will find quicker access to true, verified sources for information across their searches. Additionally, if you’re diving deeper into topics with AI Mode, Google says it’s now displaying “more engaging and prominent” links. Users will notice links with thumbnail photos and a more click-encouraging design.
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Elsewhere, the company detailed a test it’s preparing to run for its AI responses. Some users may notice a new display at the top of some responses under a “Quick results from the web” category. Google says these links will feature a quick explanation of why they’re the “best” sources for what you’ve searched.
These changes should help Search AI
Aside from your standard searches, Google is updating how published news stories appear. Preferred Sources helps users find content from websites they enjoy much more easily in Search. Google says it’s rolling out a “prominent carousel” of news stories for timely articles. If you’ve searched for a recent event or a breaking news story, you will likely see this carousel of articles ready for your perusal.
Elsewhere, Google has now rolled out clickable creator and publisher profiles in video results. This will send users to their Search Profile, which holds the full scope of their content and more. Search Profiles gave us social media vibes when Google launched the feature in June. Primarily for your Discover feed, creators and publishers will feature a “Follow on Google” button in their knowledge panel.
Their profile will host their articles, social media posts, and videos.
These updates to Google’s Search AI will roll out throughout October, so keep an eye out