Are AI Overviews Changing How We Interact with Search?
At Tribus Digital, we understand that staying ahead within the search market is critical for success. Google’s latest feature, AI Overviews, launched in the U.S. in May 2024 and quickly expanded to key global markets like the UK and India, represents the next evolution in search technology. As the integration of AI in search deepens, many of our clients are asking: What does this mean for SEO?
For us, it’s not a question of whether traditional SEO is obsolete, but how we adapt. AI Overviews are not replacing SEO—they're an extension of it, enhancing the way users interact with content. Let’s break down how this new feature is influencing the search landscape and what this means for your business.
Understanding AI Overviews
Google’s AI Overviews are changing how search results are delivered, and while this may raise eyebrows, it’s an opportunity to evolve. Since the feature was launched in major markets, businesses are navigating the shift with a key question in mind: "Is SEO dead?"
The short answer is no, SEO will never die but your traditional way of thinking should. At Tribus Digital, we see AI Overviews as another step in the ongoing evolution of search, rather than a radical departure from what we know. While AI adds an extra layer of sophistication to search, the principles of good SEO—like quality content and relevance—remain critical.
How We Help You Track AI Overviews
When it comes to tracking the impact of AI Overviews, there’s a bit of a challenge. Google Search Console doesn’t currently separate AI Overview impressions from traditional organic search results, making it tricky to assess the direct influence of these new features.
This is where Tribus Digital’s SEO tools come in. Our Site Explorer tool helps you track your site’s performance for queries that include AI Overviews, offering detailed insights into how your content stacks up in this AI-enhanced landscape. Whether it’s tracking organic keywords or identifying opportunities for improvement, we’ve got the insights you need.
Our Rank Tracker tool takes it a step further, allowing us to monitor specific keywords and instantly know if an AI Overview is present—and whether your site is ranking within it. These insights help you stay agile and keep your content visible where it matters most.
Stand Out with ‘Information Gain’
To truly shine in an AI-driven search landscape, introducing ‘information gain’ into your content is key. Google’s AI rewards content that provides something fresh and new, rather than rehashing what’s already out there.
At Tribus Digital, we believe there are three ways to bring information gain into your content:
Experimentation – Test new ideas, gather unique data, and share insights that no one else has. This gives your content the originality that AI Overviews seek.
Experience – Sharing real-world experiences adds depth to your content, giving it an authenticity that resonates with both users and search engines.
Effort – Going beyond the basics. Exceptional content, whether through in-depth analysis, engaging formats, or visual storytelling, always stands out—especially in an environment where AI is seeking diversity.
Final Thoughts
As Google continues to experiment with AI Overviews, changes are inevitable. But at Tribus Digital, our approach remains the same—focus on the fundamentals of SEO and continually adapt to new features. AI may be evolving, but great content will always be king.
