Overview
- Google published official Search Central guidance on May 15, 2026 that says high-quality, non-commodity content is the key signal for generative AI features in Google Search.
- The company says Answer Engine Optimization and Generative Engine Optimization belong inside traditional SEO and it points site owners to Search Console’s Generative AI performance report to measure AI visibility.
- Google reiterates that technical foundations such as crawlability, indexability, clear structure, and accurate metadata still determine which pages can be used to support AI answers.
- The guide expands the scope beyond written pages to include local listings, shopping data, images, and video, and it urges businesses to keep local profiles and product information verified and up to date.
- Google offers only initial advice on AI agents and recommends practical editorial processes—interviewing experts, logging customer questions, fact checks, and clear ownership—to create distinctive content and govern AI-driven visibility.