
A new study by Authoritas reveals that AI Overviews (AIOs) are present in nearly one-third of Google searches, with a significant impact on problem-solving and question-based queries. The research, based on an analysis of 10,000 keywords across seven U.S. industries, highlights how AI-generated results influence organic search visibility and user behavior.
Key Findings:
1. AI Overviews Appear in 30% of Searches but Favor Mid-Volume Keywords
AI Overviews were found in 29.9% of searches but accounted for only 11.5% of total search volume. These overviews were more common in mid-range search terms (501–2,400 monthly searches) rather than high-traffic queries. About 42% of these mid-volume searches featured AI Overviews.
Takeaway: AI Overviews are less frequent in highly competitive, high-traffic searches but thrive in mid-volume queries, offering opportunities for content creators targeting niche topics.
2. Problem-Solving Queries Trigger AI Overviews Most Frequently
The study found that AI Overviews were present in 74% of problem-solving searches and 69% of question-based queries. In contrast, navigational queries—searches for specific websites—rarely triggered AI Overviews.
Takeaway: Content that directly answers user questions or solves problems is more likely to appear in AI Overviews, making it crucial for brands to optimize for informational queries.
3. AI Overviews Favor Non-Brand Searches
Approximately 33.3% of non-brand searches generated AI Overviews, compared to just 19.6% of brand-related searches. While brand searches are often linked to buying intent, informational brand queries can still influence consumer perception.
Takeaway: AI Overviews may slow down purchase decisions but can shape brand perception in early research stages. Brands should ensure their content provides valuable insights within AI Overviews.
4. AI Overviews Push Organic Results Lower on SERPs
Expanding an AI Overview on desktop shifts the page down by 220 pixels, reducing the visibility of traditional search results. On mobile, users often see only one or two organic listings without scrolling.
Takeaway: AI Overviews take up valuable space in SERPs, forcing brands to adapt their SEO strategies. Securing a position in AI Overview answer links can help maintain visibility.
5. High-Authority Sites Are More Likely to Appear in AI Overviews
Although high-ranking URLs are more likely to be featured in AI Overviews, ranking alone does not guarantee inclusion. The study found that 50% of top-ranking pages appeared in AI Overviews, while some lower-ranking pages also made the cut. Featured Snippets had a strong correlation—if a site had a Featured Snippet, there was a 60% chance it would also be included in an AI Overview.
Takeaway: Optimizing for Featured Snippets and high-authority content improves the likelihood of being cited in AI Overviews.
6. Trust & YMYL (Your Money or Your Life) Content Matters
Google favors high-authority sources, particularly in sensitive industries like finance and healthcare. While AI Overviews often cite trusted sources, user-generated content platforms like Reddit and Quora appear less frequently.
Takeaway: Websites with strong E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness) signals are more likely to be featured in AI Overviews.
Conclusion
AI Overviews are reshaping search results, especially for problem-solving queries and informational searches. As Google refines its AI capabilities, their presence may expand further, making it essential for SEO professionals to adapt.
To stay competitive, businesses should:
- Identify search terms and intents that trigger AI Overviews.
- Optimize for Featured Snippets and high-authority content.
- Focus on E-E-A-T principles to increase credibility in AI-driven results.
As AI Overviews continue to evolve, understanding their influence on search behavior will be key to maintaining visibility in an AI-driven search landscape.
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