A recent study conducted by SE Ranking revealed that Google’s AI overviews now link more frequently to Wikipedia and LinkedIn, rather than Reddit. This change in linked domains follows a series of viral mistakes made by the AI, such as suggesting that users put glue on pizza. The study analyzed 100,000 keywords in June, showing that Reddit was no longer in the top 10 linked domains for Google’s AI overviews.
Earlier this year, Google reportedly struck a deal with Reddit to train its AI models using the platform’s content. However, after the viral incidents caused by the AI, Google seems to be prioritizing other websites in its AI overviews.
The SE Ranking study also found that LinkedIn, Wikipedia, and YouTube were ranked third, fourth, and sixth, respectively, in the top 10 linked domains. A similar study conducted in February before the public release of Google’s AI feature showed that the summaries often included snippets from Reddit and Quora forums.
In the June study, it was noted that Google displayed significantly fewer AI overviews compared to February, with less than 9% of keywords showing AI overviews, whereas 64% had an SGE response or Generate button in February. SGE, previously known as Generative Search Experience, linked to Reddit primarily for entertainment and hobby-related keywords.
Despite the changes, Google appears to be continuing to roll out AI overviews. Liz Reid, vice president of search, addressed the pizza glue incident in a recent meeting, expressing that the company would not hesitate to remove features if they caused occasional issues.
Business Insider reached out to Google for comment, but the company did not immediately respond.
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