Insights

Why AI Overview Prefers New and Updated Websites

Search is evolving fast. The introduction of AI-generated summaries at the top of search results only came in last year. Google is shifting from a traditional “list of links” model to an answer-first experience. These AI-generated summaries, known as AI Overviews, pull together information from multiple sources to provide users with immediate, consolidated answers.

For brands, this brings about one of the biggest SEO changes in history. Visibility is no longer purely about ranking in position one, it’s about being trusted, relevant, and current enough to be included in AI-generated responses. At FUZE Agency, we’re already seeing clear patterns of AI Overviews favouring new websites that are regularly updated and actively maintained.

13 Feb 2026

By Rhys

Writen by Rhys

Let's take a look in more detail as to why: 

1. Improved User Experience Metrics

New and updated websites often come with performance improvements, including faster loading speeds, improved mobile optimisation, and better structured content. Since AI Overviews rely on structured, easily digestible information, technically optimised sites are more likely to be selected as credible sources.

2. Freshness Signals Matter More Than Ever

Google’s systems prioritise up-to-date information, particularly for topics that evolve quickly. AI Overviews are designed to deliver the most relevant and current answers. Websites that publish recent content or regularly update existing pages send strong freshness signals, increasing the likelihood of being referenced.

3. Accuracy and Relevance

Outdated content risks containing inaccurate information. AI systems aim to reduce misinformation and prioritise sources that reflect the latest data, trends, and best practices. A recently updated website demonstrates ongoing accuracy and authority, which builds algorithmic trust.

4. Clear Topical Authority

When websites consistently refresh and expand their content around specific themes, they build topical authority. AI systems analyse patterns across entire domains, not just individual pages. A site that regularly publishes in-depth, current content around a niche signals expertise and subject leadership.

5. Structured Data and Semantic Optimisation

Modern SEO involves schema markup, clear heading structures, FAQs, and semantically rich content. Websites that are actively maintained are more likely to implement structured data correctly. This makes it easier for AI systems to interpret context and extract relevant insights for Overviews.

 

What This Means:

If your website is old and not functioning or hasn’t been updated in months or even years! It may struggle to appear in AI-generated summaries, which lets face it, is where the battle ground is now. Static websites are becoming invisible in an answer-first search world. Regular content audits, updating statistics, improving internal linking, and refreshing blog posts are no longer “nice to have” they are essential.

At FUZE Agency, we advise clients to treat their website as a living asset. And if it’s barely breathing, then chances are it needs replacing. We recommend that clients update existing high-performing pages, which can often deliver faster results than constantly publishing new content. Combining technical optimisation with strategic content refreshes creates a powerful foundation for AI visibility.

AI Overviews are reshaping how users discover information online. The common thread among sites being surfaced is simple. They are current, well-structured, and actively maintained. Businesses that prioritise fresh, authoritative, and technically sound content will be best positioned to thrive in this new search landscape.

The future of SEO isn’t just about ranking, it’s about relevance, recency, and readiness for AI. Get in touch with the team today and let's light the FUZE on your website!