Publishers in UK can opt out of Google AI search results

4 hours ago

UK publishers can now opt out of appearing in Google's AI Overviews search results, giving them leverage to negotiate content deals.
Google is testing features in the UK first that allow site owners to exclude their sites from AI search, which will not affect traditional search rankings.
The CMA requires Google to properly attribute publisher content in AI results with clear links and sees this as a world-first measure for transparency and fair treatment.
Publishers have reported traffic drops since AI summaries were placed at the top of search results, reducing clicks on external links.
The CMA, with enhanced powers over large tech firms, will monitor Google's search changes and may enforce further actions if necessary.

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