Introduction to AI Overviews in Google Search
Google’s John Mueller has clarified that all links within AI Overviews (AIOs) share a single position in Google Search Console. This means that every website linked in an AI Overview receives the same position value in Search Console reports, regardless of where the link appears in the overview panel.
How Google Tracks Position Data for URLs in AI Overviews
SEO consultant Gianluca Fiorelli asked Mueller how Search Console tracks position data for URLs in Google’s AI-generated answer boxes. Mueller referenced Google’s official help docs, explaining that an AIO counts as a block, so it’s all one position. It can be first position, if the block is shown first, but Mueller noted that he doesn’t know if AIO is always shown first.
Understanding Google’s Documentation on AI Overviews
Google’s Search Console Help docs explain how AI Overview metrics work. The key points are:
- Position: An AI Overview occupies a single position in search results, and all links in the AI Overview are assigned that same position.
- Clicks: Clicking a link to an external page in the AI Overview counts as a click.
- Impressions: Standard impression rules apply. To be counted as an impression, the link must be scrolled or expanded into view.
The docs also note that Search Console doesn’t include data from experiments in Search Labs, as these experiments are still in active development.
The Debate Over AI Overview Performance
This discussion highlights an ongoing debate in the SEO community regarding the performance of links in AI Overviews. Lily Ray, Vice President of SEO Strategy & Research at Amsive, recently pointed out Google’s year-old claim that websites receive more clicks when featured in AI Overviews. However, Ray stated that she would love to see a single Google Search Console report that confirms this statement, because every study so far has shown the opposite.
Looking Ahead to the Future of AI Overviews
While we now understand how position metrics are recorded, the question remains: Do AI Overview placements drive more or less traffic than traditional search listings? Google claims one thing, but many people report different experiences. Since all AIO links share the same position, it’s difficult to determine which specific placements perform better. This debate highlights the need for more precise data about how AIOs affect website traffic compared to regular search results.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the way Google tracks position data for URLs in AI Overviews has been clarified, but the debate over their performance continues. The need for more precise data on how AIOs affect website traffic is clear, and it remains to be seen how Google will address these concerns in the future. As the use of AI Overviews continues to grow, it’s essential for website owners and SEO professionals to stay up-to-date with the latest developments and best practices for optimizing their content for these new features.