What's happened
Google has introduced a new feature allowing mobile users to ask follow-up questions within AI Overviews, its AI-generated search summaries. This update aims to make search more conversational and integrated with its AI models, including Gemini 3, but raises concerns about accuracy and impact on traditional website traffic.
What's behind the headline?
Google's move to enable follow-up questions within AI Overviews signifies a strategic push toward a more conversational search experience. This blurs the lines between different AI tools like AI Mode and Gemini chatbot, aiming for a seamless user journey. However, the reliance on generative AI introduces risks, notably inaccuracies in health-related queries, which have already caused concern. The prominence of YouTube as a primary source in health answers—despite Google's claims of prioritizing reputable sources—raises questions about content quality and the potential for misinformation. This shift could diminish traffic to traditional websites, impacting publishers and content creators. The integration of Gemini 3 as the default model indicates Google's confidence in its latest AI capabilities, but the company must address the accuracy issues to maintain user trust and avoid regulatory scrutiny. Overall, Google’s AI enhancements are likely to accelerate the transition toward a more AI-centric search landscape, with significant implications for both users and publishers.
What the papers say
Business Insider UK reports that Google is rolling out follow-up question capabilities within AI Overviews on mobile, aiming to make search more conversational and integrated with its AI models like Gemini 3. The company emphasizes that this feature will improve user experience by allowing natural back-and-forth interactions. Meanwhile, The Guardian highlights the broader context of Google's AI Overviews, noting their rapid global expansion and the strategic importance for Google to defend its dominant search market. However, both sources acknowledge significant concerns: Business Insider UK mentions publisher frustrations over reduced website traffic, while The Guardian details the risks of misinformation, especially in health-related queries. Notably, The Guardian's investigation reveals that YouTube is the most cited source in health answers, despite Google's claims of prioritizing reputable medical sources. Experts warn that reliance on YouTube, a platform with user-generated content, poses dangers, especially when misinformation can lead to serious health risks. The articles collectively illustrate Google's balancing act between innovation and risk management in AI-powered search.
How we got here
Since 2024, Google has been integrating AI Overviews into its search engine, aiming to provide quick summaries above traditional results. The rollout expanded globally by mid-2025, with billions of users. The shift is part of Google's strategy to stay competitive amid rising AI rivals and to protect its core search revenue, which exceeds $200 billion annually.
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Google LLC is an American multinational technology company that specializes in Internet-related services and products, which include online advertising technologies, a search engine, cloud computing, software, and hardware.