Google Tests AI Overviews on Right Side of Search Results
Google is continually testing new ways of enhancing how we search. It has recently begun testing a new layout feature: AI Overviews on the right-hand side of the search results page. The test was first spotted by user Jamie, who posted screenshots on X (formerly Twitter). While a few others attempted to recreate the view, it appears to be a limited test at present.
In this article, we’ll explain what this change means, how it could impact users and businesses, and what experts are saying.
What Are Google AI Overviews?
Google AI Overviews are short summaries generated by artificial intelligence that appear at the top of some search results. These overviews give quick, informative answers based on various sources. Google introduced this feature to make search faster and easier for users.
Until recently, the summaries were typically at the very top of search results, most often for how-to or fact searches. Now, though, the new test places the AI Overview on the right-hand side, a spot typically taken up by the business listings or the local panel.
Why Is This Test Significant?
The biggest concern to business owners and SEOs is that this potentially enables Google to substitute the local pack with results from artificial intelligence under some conditions.
Local pack is the local search result portion displaying a map and a group of businesses nearby. Local SEO relies on it, and it assists the user in taking advantage of services locally. If Google AI Overviews instead of this complete, then there can be fewer eyes on the local businesses.
Although this is merely a test and not the actual feature, the notion that Google would change how it delivers local search results has caused anxiety.
How Did the Test Come to Light?
The test was posted by user Jamie on X. He posted screenshots demonstrating the AI Overview area shifted on the right-hand side of the search engine results page (SERP). Barry Schwartz, the go-to voice within the SEO fraternity, reported on this strange display.
While Barry himself and countless others could not reproduce the test, implying that it is something that needs to be working with a very small handful of individuals or perhaps specific geographic locations.
What Might the Cause of the Change Be?
Google has not commented on this test yet. Though, there are some reasons why this may be occurring:
- Better Layout Testing – Google will experiment with alternative SERP layouts to see what will better influence user behavior.
- AI + Local Integration – Google might be attempting to combine AI Overviews with local data to provide quicker answers to the user.
- Ad Placement Strategy – Ads in the right column are usually dedicated. This change can be experimented with along with new AI-based ad formats.
What Does This Imply for Nearby SEO?
In case Google AI Overviews Become Replaces or Merged with Local Pack, companies will be compelled to rethink their SEO efforts. Here are some things to consider:
- Stay Informed: Follow how the feature evolves from credible SEO news sites.
- Enhance Online Visibility: Update your business details on platforms such as Google Business Profile.
- Add Structured Data: Assist Google in better understanding your content with schema markup.
- Diversify Traffic: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Consider increasing your visibility on platforms such as Yelp, Apple Maps, and Bing.
Final Thoughts
For now, this test of Google AI Overviews on the right side seems limited. But it’s a reminder that the search landscape is changing fast. Whether you’re a marketer, a local business, or just someone who relies on Google daily, keeping an eye on such tests is essential.
Here’s hoping that this isn’t the death of the local pack we’ve grown accustomed to. AI is mighty, but there’s still a very strong necessity for right and correct local search results, at least for now.
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