Google AI Overviews and AI Mode in Austria: What Businesses Need to Do Now
Google now answers many search queries in Austria with an AI summary ("AI Overviews") and also offers AI Mode. This changes how often users still click through to websites. If you offer clear answers, clean structure and strong brand signals, you stay visible.
What are AI Overviews and AI Mode?
AI Overviews (called "Übersicht mit KI" in German) show a short, AI-generated answer with source links above the regular search results. In Austria and eight other European countries it has been available since March 2025. AI Mode is a separate search interface in which users can keep asking the AI follow-up questions in a dialogue, and it is now also available in Austria and the EU. Google decides automatically for which queries the AI responds.
What does this mean for clicks and reach?
Several analyses suggest that click-through rates fall when an AI answer appears, especially for pure knowledge questions. At the same time, Google links to sources in its answers. For businesses this means the role of the website is shifting. Users get simple information directly in search; visitors come when they want to know more, compare or make an enquiry. That is exactly where your pages have to convince.
Which queries are affected and which are not?
| Type of search | AI answer likely? | Consequence |
|---|---|---|
| Explanatory questions ("How does … work") | Yes | Phrase answers clearly, build your brand as a source |
| Local search ("… Vienna") | Partly, often with a map | Maintain your Google Business Profile and local pages |
| Purchase and enquiry searches | Partly | Strong service and contact pages, add ads |
Which 6 steps make sense now?
- Answer core questions: Every important page starts with a clear, short answer.
- Check structure: Clean headings, short paragraphs, lists and tables where they help.
- Optimise your Google Business Profile: Complete, up to date, with photos and reviews (see our article on local SEO).
- Strengthen your brand: People who search for your name specifically will click. Social media, press and reviews all contribute.
- Add ads: Especially for purchase and enquiry searches, paid placements remain important (Google Ads).
- Measure correctly: Not just clicks, but enquiries and calls count. Keep an eye on brand searches and direct visits.
Do I have to rewrite my content for AI?
Not completely. Helpful, reliable content is still the core. But check whether your most important pages really answer questions instead of just listing services. More on the topic in the article GEO for Vienna Businesses.
Frequently asked questions
Since when have AI Overviews been available in Austria?
Google introduced "AI Overviews" in spring 2025 in Austria, among other countries. AI Mode followed later for Austria and the EU.
Can I turn off AI Overviews?
Users can switch to the Web filter in search, which shows classic links. Website owners cannot blanket-prevent their content from being summarised in search without also losing visibility.
Are Google Ads visible in AI answers?
Google is testing and expanding ad placements around AI answers. Details change constantly, so check the latest information in your Google Ads account.
