A new study finds Google is reducing the frequency of, but lengthening, AI overviews in search results.

Google has reduced the frequency of AI-generated overviews. However, when they do appear, the overviews are more detailed. The likelihood of receiving an overview varies across industries. According to new research, Google’s AI-generated overviews have undergone significant adjustments since their initial rollout.

The study from SE Ranking analyzed 100,000 keywords and found that Google has significantly reduced the frequency of AI overviews. However, when they do appear, they are more detailed than before.

The study examines which topics and industries are more likely to receive an AI overview and how these AI snippets interact with other search features like featured snippets and ads. Here’s an overview of the findings and their implications for your SEO efforts.

Declining Frequency Of AI Overviews

In contrast to the pre-rollout figures, only 8% of the examined searches now trigger an AI Overview, a 52% drop from January levels.

Yevheniia Khromova, the study’s author, believes this indicates Google is taking a more measured approach. She states:

“The sharp decrease in AI Overview presence likely reflects Google’s efforts to boost the accuracy and trustworthiness of AI-generated answers.”

Longer AI Overviews

Although the frequency of AI overviews has decreased, the ones that do appear provide more detailed information. The average length of the text has grown by nearly 25% to around 4,342 characters.

In another notable change, AI overviews now link to fewer sources on average – usually just four links after expanding the snippet. However, 84% still include at least one domain from that query’s top 10 organic search results.

Niche Dynamics & Ranking Factors

The chances of getting an AI overview vary across different industries.

Research related to relationships, food and beverages, and technology was most likely to trigger AI overviews. In contrast, sensitive areas like healthcare, legal, and news had a low rate of showing AI summaries, less than 1%.

Longer search queries with ten words were more likely to generate an AI overview, with a 19% rate, indicating that AI summaries are more useful for complex information needs. Additionally, search terms with lower search volumes and lower cost-per-click were more likely to display AI summaries.

Other Characteristics Of AI Overviews

The research reveals that 45% of AI overviews appear alongside featured snippets, often sourced from the exact domains.

Approximately 87% of AI overviews now coexist with ads, up from 73% previously, indicating a potential increase in competition for advertising space.

What Does This Mean?

SE Ranking’s research on AI overviews has several implications:

• Reduced Risk Of Traffic Losses: With fewer searches triggering AI overviews that directly answer queries, organic listings are less likely to be demoted or receive reduced traffic.
• Most Impacted Niches: AI overviews are more prevalent in relationships, food, and technology niches. Publishers in these sectors should closely monitor Google’s AI overview strategy.
• Long-form and in-depth Content is Essential: As AI snippets become longer, companies may need to create more comprehensive content that goes beyond what the overviews cover.

Looking Ahead

While the number of AI overviews has decreased recently, this trend may not continue.

AI overviews will undoubtedly continue to evolve.

It’s crucial to monitor developments closely, experiment with different strategies to address them, and adjust your approach as needed. If you find it challenging to navigate these changes, consider exploring our monthly SEO packages and let the experts assist you.