Glossary · AI Search

AI Overviews

Also called: Google AI Overviews

Google may show an AI-generated snapshot for a query when its systems decide the format is useful. The layout, placement, and number of supporting links can vary. During testing, Google called the feature Search Generative Experience, or SGE.

An AI Overview can change how much of the answer appears before a click. If a business or page appears as a source, open the link and check what part of the answer it actually supports instead of treating the source badge as a permanent rank.

No content treatment guarantees inclusion. Google directs publishers to follow its normal Search guidance, keep pages crawlable, and focus on useful content for people.

A plain example

For a question such as "do I need a permit to finish my basement in Wauwatosa," Google may show an AI Overview with supporting links. Its presence and sources can change.