Generative AI is a type of artificial intelligence that can create new content like text, images, and even music. On the internet, search engines such as Google have started using this technology to provide direct answers to users’ questions instead of just showing a list of website links.

How Search Used to Work

In the past, when you searched for something online, you would see a list of blue links pointing to different websites. To find the information you wanted, you had to click on one of those links. Website owners worked hard to make sure their pages appeared near the top of these search results, hoping to attract more visitors.

What’s Different Now?

Things are changing quickly. Search engines now use generative AI to offer quick answers right at the top of the search page. These AI-generated responses often give people the information they need without requiring them to click on any links. For example, if you search for “how to tie a tie,” Google might show you the steps directly on the search page. This feature, called an “AI Overview,” is becoming more common and is changing how people interact with search results.

Why Website Visits Are Dropping

Because AI provides answers immediately, fewer people are clicking through to websites. Studies have shown that after Google introduced AI Overviews, some websites experienced a drop in visitors by 30% or even more. This decline mostly affects sites that offer simple facts or instructions, such as online dictionaries, how-to guides, and weather websites.

Who’s Feeling the Impact?

Websites that mainly provide basic or straightforward information are the most affected by this change. For example, dictionary and fact-based sites find that AI can quickly provide definitions or facts without users needing to visit the site. Instructional pages with step-by-step guides are also easily summarized by AI. Similarly, product review and comparison sites lose visitors because AI can list product features and prices directly in the search results. Even weather and time websites see fewer clicks since users get instant updates from AI answers.

What Can Website Owners Do About It?

This shift presents a big challenge for website owners, but there are ways to adapt. Instead of repeating basic facts, website creators can focus on offering unique content, such as personal stories, expert opinions, or experiences that AI cannot easily replicate. It’s also important to highlight what makes a site different by providing information or services that stand out from the rest. Building a strong reputation and gaining the trust of visitors can encourage people to come directly to the site rather than relying solely on AI-generated answers.

Generative AI is making search engines smarter and faster, but it is also changing the rules for website owners. While some sites may lose visitors, those that provide something special or valuable still have a chance to succeed. The key is to keep adapting and finding new ways to connect with audiences as technology evolves.

Generative AI is transforming how people find information online. Website owners and content creators need to understand these changes and continue exploring new strategies to stand out in this evolving digital landscape.

Written by VeniVidiVideo