Google clarified that AI Overviews is designed to provide users with a better and more comprehensive search experience, without negatively affecting the traffic websites receive. According to Google, billions of clicks continue to be directed daily to publishers and content creators. Users now also have easier access to a variety of sources, including videos, forums, and personal experiences.

Also Read: How to use Instagram Map feature? Here is quick guide

A Google spokesperson, Reid, emphasized that the company’s goal is not to decrease web traffic but to increase the value of information available to users. The relationship between Google Search and the web remains strong, added Reid, and he talked about how connecting people to the most reliable and relevant information is the company’s main commitment.

However, a drop in referral traffic by up to 30 percent was reported by many publishers, with some reporters even seeing declines exceeding 50 percent.

It is important to note that independent publishers in the European Union have filed an antitrust complaint against Google, in which they have accused Google of using content through AI Overviews without proper compensation and without giving publishers the option to opt-out.