Google’s AI Search Features and Content Usage
Google is actively evolving its AI-powered search experiences, including AI Overviews and AI Mode. A recent poll asked over 350 participants whether they would block Google from using their content in these AI features. About 33% said they would block Google, 42% would not, and 25% remain undecided. This highlights ongoing concerns among content creators about how their material is utilized in AI search results.
In response to such concerns and regulatory requirements from the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), Google is exploring ways to allow websites to opt out of having their content used in Search generative AI features. This potential opt-out aims to give site owners more control over their content’s AI usage.
Google AI Overviews Powered by Gemini 3 and Follow-Up Interaction Changes
Google AI Overviews have recently been upgraded globally to run on the Gemini 3 model. According to Robby Stein, VP of Product for Google Search, this change aims to deliver best-in-class AI responses directly on the search results page for queries where AI assistance is helpful.
However, there is a notable update regarding user interaction with AI Overviews. When users click the “Show more” button and ask follow-up questions, they are now taken directly into AI Mode. This adjustment may lead to fewer clicks to original websites, as more user traffic could stay within Google’s AI environment.
Concerns Around Google’s AI “Frankenstein” Recipes
An ongoing issue for recipe bloggers and publishers involves Google’s Personal Intelligence generating composite or “Frankenstein” recipes. These AI-created recipes combine chunks of content from multiple sources, often resulting in less coherent or original content. The problem intensifies when such Frankenstein content is served through Google’s AI features, potentially impacting the visibility and traffic of original recipe creators.
Google Search Interface Enhancements
Google is experimenting with a new feature that allows users to customize their search results page by adding a splash of color. A palette icon appears at the top of the results, inviting users to “Add a splash of color to the top of Search” and pick their preferred shade. This playful addition aims to enhance user experience by injecting a bit of personalization into the search interface.
Google Ads Platform Updates
Advertisers should note that the Google Ads advertiser verification page has been relocated within the Google Ads console. It now resides under Admin > Policy and Account, streamlining access to verification tools.
Additionally, Google has released version 23 of the Google Ads API. This major update includes numerous enhancements such as Performance Max reporting with Ad Network type breakdown, expanded incentives, improved reporting, and new conversion controls. These updates provide advertisers with more detailed insights and greater control over campaigns.
Bing Ads Revenue Growth and AI Performance Reporting
Microsoft’s second quarter 2026 earnings revealed a 10% increase in search and advertising revenue for Bing Ads. While growth remains positive, it has slowed compared to previous quarters, which saw increases of 16% and 21%. This trend is worth monitoring for advertisers and industry watchers.
On the AI front, Bing Webmaster Tools is testing a new AI Performance report in beta. This report shows how many citations websites are receiving from Microsoft Copilot and its partners, effectively tracking impressions from Bing AI experiences. However, it currently does not provide data on clicks derived from these AI interactions.
Google Search Result Snippets and Sitelinks Testing
Google is experimenting with showing up to 10 sitelinks on some search result snippets, a significant increase from the usual four. This test could improve the visibility of website sections directly in search results, potentially benefiting site navigation and user engagement.
Yahoo’s Return to AI-Powered Search with Yahoo! Scout
After years of development and hints, Yahoo has officially launched Yahoo! Scout, its new AI search engine feature. This tool is integrated across Yahoo Search, Yahoo Mail, Yahoo News, Yahoo Finance, Yahoo Sports, and more. Yahoo! Scout also operates at scout.yahoo.com, marking Yahoo’s renewed commitment to incorporating AI into search experiences.
Daily Search Forum Recaps
For those interested in ongoing search industry discussions, daily recaps from the Search Engine Roundtable provide valuable insights. Recent summaries include updates on AI features, search forum conversations, and emerging trends across platforms.