Archive · 8 Aug 2025
Google Disputes Claims of Reduced Website Traffic from AI Overviews
Google is saying its new AI search feature isn't hurting websites, even though some websites are seeing fewer visitors.
Google claims the amount of people clicking on websites from search results has stayed the same.
Some studies show people aren't clicking on links as much when AI provides answers directly.
Google thinks people are now getting their info from other places, like videos and forums.
Publishers are worried because Google now answers questions without people needing to visit their sites.
Google insists it still sends a lot of traffic to websites every day.
Google denies its AI Overviews are reducing website traffic, citing stable organic click volume.
Google's VP argues that reports of declining traffic use flawed methods or reflect unrelated changes.
Google acknowledges shifting user behavior and the influence of forums, videos, and podcasts.
Independent research, such as Pew's, shows lower click-through rates with AI Overviews.
Publishers express concerns about Google answering queries directly, reducing external site clicks.
- Who
- Google and publishers.
- What
- Google denies AI Overviews are cutting website traffic.
- When
- Over the past year.
- Where
- In a new blog post.
- Why
- Google is responding to industry concerns and reports of declining traffic to websites due to its AI-powered search features.
Google's View
Publishers' View
Website Traffic
Google's View
Organic click volume has remained relatively stable.
Publishers' View
Independent research reports a decline in website traffic.
- Company
- Main Point
- AI Overviews and website traffic
- Google's Stance
- Traffic is relatively stable
- Independent Research
- Shows lower click-through rates