Google has subtly yet significantly changed the way we search for things once again. This time with the introduction of AI Mode, a new tab within Google Search that offers a conversational, AI-powered overview of search results.
While it might just look like another search feature, for marketers and SEO professionals, it represents a big shift in how people find and engage with information online.
So, what do businesses need to know about Google’s new AI Mode?
What is AI Mode?
AI Mode is a new way to interact with Google Search. Rather than the usual list of blue links, AI Mode provides answers in summarised, conversational form directly in the search interface. It is powered by Gemini 2.5’s advanced reasoning, thinking and multimodal capabilities to help with even your toughest questions. It doesn’t just provide links to content, it explains it, summarises it, and presents the key points in the first instance.
How Does AI Mode Change the Way People Search?
Traditionally, a Google search was what triggered people to scan through multiple links, clicking into websites, comparing sources, and piecing together information to decide which source was most suitable for them.
AI Mode has flipped all of this on its head. Now, searchers can get a quick, AI-generated answer without ever leaving the search page. That’s fewer clicks, less browsing, and possibly less exposure for websites that previously relied on high organic rankings to drive traffic.
What Does AI Mode Mean for SEO and Content Visibility?
The introduction of AI Mode means SEO is no longer just about ranking in the top ten results, it’s now about being included in the AI Overview summary. Google’s AI Mode is selecting content that it deems to be valuable, reliable and relevant to construct its responses.
If your content fails to satisfy all of those things, it may not appear at all. This indicates a stronger move towards semantic search and contextual understanding. While backlinks and keywords are still important in your content, the new game is credibility and value.
Google’s AI aims to supply information that is:
- Easily readable and understandable
- Credible and factually accurate
- Authoritative and from trusted sources
- Directly answers the searcher’s questions
What Should Businesses Do?
If your content is not optimised for AI Mode yet, don’t worry! We’re here to show you how.
- Create high-quality, user-driven content that prioritises answering real questions directly and concisely.
- Build authority and trust by using clear attribution, citing experts, and use a brand tone of voice that sounds credible.
- Optimise for readability, not just keywords by writing in plain, jargon-free language, using bullet points and formatted headings.
- Answer questions directly by using FAQs, how-to articles, and other educational formats that mirror how users phrase their searches.
- Finally, stick to “E-E-A-T” or Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness. These aren’t just buzzwords, they are a concept directly from Google’s Search Quality Rater Guidelines.
Google’s AI Mode represents the future of searching and should not be overlooked by businesses who want to boost their visibility on search engines. Companies that transform their approach quickly and create useful and authentic content are the ones who will remain top of mind in this new AI age.
It’s no longer about being found, it’s about being understood and understanding the needs of those who may be searching for you.
If you’re a business interested in how to keep your business visible on Google AI and what to do to keep your content relevant, then speak to our SEO department. Fill out the enquiry form below and one of our friendly team members will be in contact with you to discuss further.