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What each term helps you ask
SEO: can people and search systems find the relevant page?
AEO: does the page answer the question accurately and directly?
GEO: can a generative system find useful, credible information about the topic and business?
These questions help organise the work. They do not create separate promises of visibility.
What Google guidance says
Google’s guidance keeps foundational SEO relevant to its generative search features. It does not prescribe a special AI text file or special schema as a requirement for appearance. Eligibility and good practice do not guarantee inclusion. Read the official guide linked below for the current details.
A hypothetical example
Imagine an appointment-based training provider. A useful course page explains the subject, eligibility, delivery, location and enquiry process. A genuine author or reviewer checks the details, and the page links to relevant supporting information. This helps a prospective learner assess the offer and gives search systems clearer information. It is an example of content planning, not evidence of a ranking result.
What to improve before chasing a new label
Make important services understandable. Fix broken contact journeys. Keep names, locations and contact information accurate. Answer genuine customer questions and support substantive claims with relevant evidence. Add original detail that reflects the work your business actually does.
What no agency can guarantee
AI systems choose and present information in ways that vary across questions, products and sessions. A particular citation or recommendation cannot be guaranteed. Treat screenshots as observations at a moment in time, not permanent rankings.
How to review progress sensibly
Use a repeatable set of relevant questions, record the engine and date, and check whether references accurately describe the business. Review identifiable referral visits and enquiries where possible. A sampled answer check is a directional signal rather than a complete market measure.
Keep the focus on better information
A clearer website can serve customers across traditional search and answer-led experiences. Start with the content and evidence your audience needs, then evaluate how it is discovered.
Source and next step
Source: Google Search Central, Optimizing your website for generative AI features on Google Search. https://developers.google.com/search/docs/fundamentals/ai-optimization-guide
Reviewed 13 October 2026.