Google is preparing to increase the visibility of source links in its AI-powered search experiences. According to the adjustment announced by the company on October 15, links directing to websites in AI Mode and AI Overviews features will be displayed more prominently in the upper sections of responses and within the text.
In the new structure, users will be able to reach source pages directly via relevant words and phrases while reading the AI response. Google also states that it is increasing the number of links provided within responses. The adjustment comes as debates continue regarding the impact of AI summaries on publisher traffic.
SEPARATE SECTION TO BE TESTED FOR OFFICIAL SITES
One of the innovations Google will test is a separate section for official sites. For users looking to complete a specific task or access reliable information, the plan is to include relevant official links and short notes explaining the purpose of these links at the beginning of the response.
The company also announced that it will begin rolling out scrollable cards showing current news to new countries and languages. These cards are intended to highlight the user's preferred news sources. However, the announcement did not specify which countries and languages the expansion would cover.
Google is also starting to support related content links at the end of some AI responses with small images. This section is intended to help users more easily notice articles related to the topic and navigate to the relevant pages.
Another test covers the names of content creators and publishers in video results. When users click on these names, they will be directed to a search profile created within AI Mode. The profile page is expected to contain information about the content creator or publisher and their related work.
Not all of the changes announced by Google are at the same stage. While the placement and design of links are being updated, features such as separate sections for official sites and clickable publisher profiles will be in the testing process.
News Source: 12punto
