Someone searching on Google now often sees an AI-written answer before the list of links. According to 2026 Similarweb data reported by TechCrunch, AI Overviews went from appearing in 15% of searches a year earlier to 43%.
What the numbers say
- AI Overviews: up from 15% to 43% of searches.
- AI Mode: visits to Google’s conversational search mode grew from 126 million in June 2025 to 279 million in May 2026.
- Longer queries: people increasingly search with full questions instead of a few keywords.
What changed at Google I/O 2026?
At I/O on 19 May 2026, Google introduced what it called the biggest upgrade to the search box in more than 25 years. The new box supports longer questions, follow-ups and non-text inputs such as images and files. Users can move from an AI Overview into AI Mode without losing the context of their query. Google said the move would be optional and that blue links would continue to appear below AI summaries.
What it means for websites
Publishers report losing clicks to AI answers, as users find what they need without leaving Google. At the same time, citations inside AI answers are increasing. So the question is no longer just “where do I rank?” but also “am I cited as a source in the AI answer?”
What to do
- Use questions as headings and answer them clearly. Answer the questions your customers actually ask, briefly and directly.
- Add structured data. Mark up your business, services, products and FAQs with schema.
- Create content that earns the click. Calculators, comparisons, quotes and bookings offer value an AI summary can’t.
- Be findable beyond your own site. Mentions in industry directories and trusted publications help AI trust your brand.
Our take
This shows that GEO (generative engine optimisation) is no longer a “later” project — it’s today’s work. See how ready your site is for AI search with our free audit tool.