Google is by far the most used search engine in Australia holding a market share of 94.56%.
So, when Google announced they will be giving the world’s favourite search engine an AI-makeover, we started to investigate what this could mean for Australian businesses.
At the moment, Google’s Search Generative Experience (GSE) is only available in the US and remains in the early experimental stages.
Instead of the traditional keyword-focused search style, Google aims to embrace a more conversational approach within its search engine.
No need to stress though! In this article, we will discuss how Google’s new generative AI search will impact your website’s SEO and online presence.
What is generative AI search?
Generative AI refers to artificial intelligence that can generate content. You may have already come across examples of this technology, such as ChatGPT which can generate text, images and even music.
Another example is Bard, Google’s AI chatbot that focuses on boosting your productivity, bringing your ideas to life and answering your questions in a natural and conversational way.
Generative AI search refers to search engines using generative AI to give more context to searches, pulling relevant information from across the web. The idea is you can ask more specific questions and the AI will provide a detailed, conversation-like answer.
Why is Google moving toward AI-generative searches?
With new breakthroughs in generative AI, Google is again reimagining what a search engine can do. They are doing some of the ‘heavy lifting’ so users can understand a topic faster and easily get the answers they need.
When it comes to shopping on Google, these developments are making even the most complex purchase decisions faster and easier for customers.
In an example from Google they input, “good bike for 5-mile commute with hills” into search.
The results instantly show a snapshot of noteworthy factors to consider and products that fit the bill, with links to dig deeper. Users will also see product descriptions that include relevant, up-to-date reviews, ratings, prices and product images.
Example of Google’s Generative AI Search.
How will small businesses be impacted?
While the full impact of Google’s generative AI search on SEO is still uncertain, what we do know is there is no need to panic.
First off, Google is not completely removing traditional search results! The traditional links to websites will be seen below the AI snapshot. Google’s generative AI search engine is also linking back to sources more frequently than initially expected, providing more opportunities for small businesses to be featured.
As always creating high-quality, trustworthy content that addresses specific topics relevant to your audience is essential for website traffic and user experience.
LinkedIn has recommended monitoring your websites Core Web Vitals in Google Search Console to avoid moving down the search engine rankings. You can find out more about Core Web Vitals in our podcast episode with SEO expert, Mike Andrews.
At the rate AI has grown over the past year, it’s safe to assume there will be many more developments to come as Google continues to implement generative AI search.
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Looking to learn more about AI?
Check out our recent blog ‘How AI Can Help Your Small Business’ for a range of simple ways small businesses can begin streamlining their processes with AI.
Feel free to contact us on 1300 753 650 or send us an enquiry if you have any questions, we are always happy to help!