Google is currently examining options that would allow websites to choose not to use certain AI features in Search. The Gemini 3 model has now become the primary model for AI Overviews on a global scale, introducing a new pathway to AI Mode. Sam Altman criticized the writing quality of GPT-5.2 by stating that OpenAI made a mistake in prioritizing reasoning capabilities.
The latest SEO Pulse highlights updates that impact publisher control over AI functions, the processing of queries by AI Overviews, and the implications of AI model decisions on content workflows. This information is crucial for your work.
Google is considering implementing updates that would enable websites to opt out of AI-powered search functions. The announcement coincided with the UK Competition and Markets Authority launching a consultation on potential new regulations for Google Search.
In a blog post, Ron Eden, principal product management at Google, mentioned that they are exploring new controls that would allow websites to specifically opt out of generative AI features in Search. However, Google did not provide any details regarding the timeline or technical specifications.
Publishers and regulators have been resisting the implementation of AI Overviews. Various organizations have raised concerns and submitted complaints requesting the ability to opt out of AI summaries without being completely excluded from search results.
A report by BuzzStream revealed that a significant number of top news publishers block certain AI training bots and retrieval bots affecting AI citations. Publishers are already taking action by utilizing their robots.txt files.
Google’s response suggests that they are reacting to pressure from the industry by considering controls that were previously unavailable. The main question remains about the technical implications of opting out of AI search features.
The recent update makes Gemini 3 the default model for AI Overviews globally, where the feature is accessible. This upgrade also facilitates a direct transition into AI Mode conversations.
Robby Stein, VP of Product for Google Search, announced that over 1 billion users are now benefiting from AI Overviews using the Gemini 3 model. The enhancement equips AI Overviews with advanced reasoning capabilities similar to those found in AI Mode.
The shift towards better reasoning enables AI Overviews to handle more complex queries effectively at the top of search results. The seamless integration into AI Mode ensures a smoother user experience within Google’s AI interfaces.
During a developer town hall, Sam Altman acknowledged issues with the writing quality of GPT-5.2 and indicated improvements in future versions. Altman explained that GPT-5.2 was designed to excel in technical aspects rather than writing quality, resulting in mechanical prose production.
The admission sheds light on the tradeoffs involved in developing models and emphasizes the need to align tools with specific tasks based on their strengths and weaknesses. Altman expressed hope for future versions to enhance writing quality compared to previous iterations like GPT-4.5 but did not specify a timeline.
This week’s developments underscore platforms making strategic choices and weighing competing priorities. Google’s exploration of publisher controls over AI features, the rollout of Gemini 3, and insights into model development demonstrate complex decision-making processes within these ecosystems.
The focus is on understanding available options for controlling content visibility in AI search results and selecting appropriate tools for specific tasks amid evolving platform dynamics beyond individual control. Stay informed about these key developments shaping the digital landscape this week.