Google’s recent introduction of an AI-only search mode, powered by the Gemini 2.0 model, could, if it takes off, mark a pretty significant change in how internet users—worldwide—access information.
This experimental new feature replaces the traditional blue links with AI-generated summaries, which are designed to provide more immediate and comprehensive responses to user queries. While this change is designed to “enhance user experience,” it’s going to require affiliates to make some changes—as we’ll outline in this post.
Google’s shift to AI-only search
At the time of writing, the AI-only search mode is only available to subscribers of Google One AI Premium, a $19.99 per month plan that includes additional cloud storage and exclusive AI features. If users choose to use this new search mode, they’ll receive AI-generated summaries instead of the standard list of hyperlinks, with the option to ask follow-up questions directly within the search interface.
The search uses Google’s Gemini 2.0 AI model, a significant improvement from earlier Google models like BARD. Gemini 2.0, for example, is known for its advanced reasoning capabilities, and it’s also able to handle complex queries. Unlike all other AI tools currently available, Gemini 2.0 also has the advantage of being trained on Google’s own data.
How AI-only search will affect affiliates
The transition to AI-generated search results is unlikely to see mainstream acceptance—yet—but it’s still a significant change, and one that affiliate marketers should be aware of.
Firstly, the dynamics of traffic may change. AI summaries might reduce the need for users to visit external websites, potentially decreasing traffic to affiliate sites. This could have a direct impact on the revenue model that relies primarily on user clicks and page views.
Secondly, there’s the issue of content visibility. With AI-generated content providing direct answers, traditional search engine optimisation (SEO) strategies may need to evolve—and affiliates will need to make sure their content remains visible and relevant, even when included within AI-powered summaries.
There’s also been some legal movement after Google’s changes. Chegg, for example, has filed a federal antitrust lawsuit against Google, claiming that AI-generated overviews have led to a significant drop in their website traffic and revenue!
How affiliates can adapt
While Google’s AI-only search is likely to see numerous updates and changes, affiliate marketers should still prepare as best they can. Below, we’ll explore a few strategies that may help to mitigate the negatives from the changes:
- Optimise for AI Integration: Affiliates should begin by making sure that any product information is well-structured and detailed to make sure it’s appropriate for inclusion within AI-generated summaries and recommendations.
- Diversify Traffic Sources: Relying solely on traditional search traffic may no longer be a viable strategy for affiliates. To combat this, consider expanding (or increasing efforts) into social media, email marketing, and other channels.
- Enhance User Engagement: Developing interactive and multimedia content can attract users directly to affiliate sites, offering experiences that AI summaries can’t replicate.
While it’s true that Google’s AI-only search mode could represent a pretty significant change in how users around the world access information, it’s still early days—and by proactively adapting to these changes now, affiliates can continue to run successful businesses, even in an AI-driven search environment.
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