If you’re curious about how Google’s SGE (Search, Google+, and Engagement) platform performs, you’re in luck! In this blog post, I’ll be sharing my first impressions about the platform and what I’ve learned from using it. I’ve compiled a list of 9 key takeaways that will give you an inside look at what to expect from this innovative tool. So, strap in and get ready to discover everything you need to know about Google SGE!
Introduction
Recently, Google introduced a new search feature known as SGE (Search Generated Experience) that incorporates generative AI. This feature allows users to receive answers to their queries in the form of AI. After typing a search query, the AI-generated answer is displayed in a small blinking box at the top of the search result. Users have the choice to read the generated answer or scroll down to click on a website link. This article will analyze my first impressions of Google SGE and provide key takeaways for its implementation in the future.
1. Automatic Mechanism Vs. Button Mechanism
Google is experimenting with two mechanics for loading AI answers: automatically and with a button. An automatic mechanism loads the AI-generated answer after a few seconds of typing, while a button mechanism allows users to click a button to load the AI answer. The automatic mechanism can be useful for quick answers, while the button mechanism can provide additional user control.
2. Screen Size Variations
The size of AI-generated answers may vary based on the size of the screen or browser. This can affect the visibility of the answer and also impact user experience. A larger screen may display a longer generated answer, while a smaller screen may cut it short.
3. No Ads
There are no ads in AI-generated answers, which is a positive aspect for users. This can make it easier to find relevant information, without being bombarded with advertisements.
4. Show More Button
AI-generated answers are usually cut short with a “show more” button, but the first organic result is always visible. This can help users to quickly access the information they are looking for, while also providing additional options for relevant content.
5. Wide Range of Topics
Not all queries generate AI-generated answers, but there is a wide range of covered topics. This can include topics related to health, sports, entertainment, finance, and more. It is important to note that the AI answers are still in the early stages of development and may still have some limitations.
6. Impact on SEO
AI-generated answers have the potential to impact SEO and website traffic, but further observations are required. Websites that rank in the first organic result may experience a decrease in traffic, while smaller publishers may benefit from the new SERP design.
7. User Control
Users have the choice to read the AI-generated answer or click on a website link by scrolling down the page. This provides an additional level of user control, enabling users to find the information they need while being able to weigh up the credibility of the data from a website.
8. Heavy Pages
The behavior of AI-generated answers on heavy pages is still unknown. Heavy pages are those that contain a lot of content, media, and other elements that can slow down page load times. This can affect how quickly users can access information, creating a frustrating experience.
9. Limitations in AI-generated answers
AI-generated answers might have some limitations, and they may not be able to answer every question. This can be especially true for complex topics requiring detailed explanation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Google SGE is a fascinating new feature that incorporates generative AI into the search experience. The small blinking box that appears after typing a search query offers AI-generated answers that users can choose to read or click on the organic result links. While the technology is in its infancy, there is still potential for the feature to have wide-ranging impacts on SEO and website traffic. Further development and observations of behavior are needed before conclusions can be reached, but it’s exciting to see new developments in the world of search.
FAQs
- What is Google SGE?
- How do AI-generated answers appear in SGE?
- Can users choose not to see AI-generated answers in SGE?
- Is there any benefit to small publishers from SGE’s new SERP design?
- Will AI-generated answers always be displayed first in SGE’s SERP design?