Google AI Overviews Claims Larger Pixel Area in SERPs
Google’s AI Overviews (AIO) is reshaping the search engine results page (SERP) landscape, occupying more screen space and increasingly pushing organic results out of sight. New data from BrightEdge highlights the growing influence of AIO and the urgent need for businesses to adapt their SEO strategies.
The Growing Dominance of Google AIO
Since its launch in May 2024, Google’s AIO has been controversial. By providing instant answers pulled directly from publishers’ content, AIO minimizes the need for users to click through to websites. This trend has raised concerns among publishers, negatively impacting website traffic and revenue.
AIO’s impact is also visible in its physical footprint. Initially occupying 600 pixels in SERPs, it expanded to 800 pixels by late summer and is expected to surpass 1,000 pixels by 2025. This means most of what users see “above the fold” is dominated by AI responses and advertisements, leaving little room for organic links.
Industries Most Affected by AIO
BrightEdge data reveals a surge in AIO prevalence across several niches:
- Healthcare: AIO visibility increased from 70% to over 80% for health-related queries.
- B2B Technology: AIO results now appear in nearly 50% of queries, up from 30% in May 2024.
- eCommerce: Visibility climbed from 27% to over 35%, with projections nearing 45%.
- Finance: A dramatic rise from 5% to 20% and expected to hit 25% by mid-2025.
Emerging sectors like travel, restaurants, and entertainment are also seeing rapid AIO growth, with predictions of up to 100x increases in coverage by 2025.
Adapting to the AIO Era
To remain competitive in an AI-driven search landscape, businesses must pivot their SEO strategies. Here’s how:
- Optimize for AI Citations: Use schema markup and structured data to increase the likelihood of being featured in AIO responses.
- Focus on Intent-Based Content: Create comprehensive, multi-layered content that answers complex user queries.
- Monitor Industry-Specific Trends: Analyze how AIO affects your niche and adapt to emerging patterns.
- Prepare for Actionable AI: Ensure your content aligns with transactional capabilities like bookings or purchases.
Looking Ahead
With Google’s Gemini assistant and other AI advancements, the traditional search experience is rapidly evolving. AIO’s growing presence demands businesses rethink their content creation and SEO approach. The key to thriving in this new landscape is adaptability, innovation, and a focus on user intent.
Sarosh Khan has been part of CyberX Studio since 2024 as a Content Writer and Strategist. With a degree in Media & Communication Studies, Sarosh is passionate about creating content that is both informative and engaging. She specializes in researching topics and crafting content strategies that help boost engagement and support the studio’s marketing goals.