Google says links in AI Mode and AI Overviews are becoming more numerous and appear higher in responses more often, and it is testing a dedicated section at the top for official websites. For small businesses, your own site may become easier to click, but only if it is clear and trustworthy.
What did Google announce?
On 15 October 2026 Google published a post on its Search blog by Hema Budaraju about updates to AI Mode and AI Overviews. Search Engine Journal covered it the same day. Google reports continued and substantial increases in inline links, shown higher more often, without giving a figure.
What is included?
More and higher inline links; a test of a section highlighting one or two official sources; thumbnails for related-article links; timely-article carousels expanding to more locations and languages; and a test of clickable creator and publisher names on video results in AI Mode. The official-site section and creator links are tests. Sweden is not mentioned, and Search profiles apply in the US, Canada and India according to Search Engine Journal.
Does it mean more traffic?
Nobody knows yet. Google shares no click data, and Search Console assigns all links in an AI Overview the same position. Track real clicks and visits over time.
What should small businesses do now?
Search for your key services in AI Mode and note whether your site is linked. Make your site the best official source about you: clear service pages, current contact details and a complete Google Business Profile. Check in Search Console that your site is eligible for generative AI features, and create content that answers customer questions concretely.
Want to know how your website fares in AI search? Adeo Marketing helps with SEO – get in touch.
Sources: Google Search blog, 15 October 2026 · Search Engine Journal, 15 October 2026