Google is updating AI Mode and AI Overviews to make links to websites, news articles, and sources easier to find within AI-generated search responses. Announced on October 15, 2026, the changes include more visible inline links, dedicated sections for official websites, expanded news carousels, and clickable profiles for publishers and creators.
Google plans to display inline links higher up in AI-generated responses more frequently. These links allow users to visit websites directly from the information presented in AI Mode and AI Overviews.
The update aims to make important sources easier to access while users read AI-generated answers, giving them a more direct way to explore the information behind a response.
Google is also testing a dedicated section at the top of certain AI responses for official websites that provide specific information or services. The section will include context explaining why each link may be useful, helping users find the right webpage more quickly.
Google is expanding prominent carousels featuring timely news articles to more regions and languages worldwide. These carousels are designed to help users discover relevant reporting on developing topics and can highlight publications they have selected through the Preferred Sources feature.
The company said the number of people using Preferred Sources has grown more than sevenfold since the beginning of 2026. The feature helps users discover content from websites and publishers they prefer.
Google is also redesigning links displayed at the end of some AI responses. These links will feature image thumbnails and a more prominent design, encouraging users to explore related articles and additional perspectives.
The change gives users more options to move beyond AI-generated summaries and read original reporting or detailed analysis from publishers.
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Google has started testing clickable publisher and creator names on video results in AI Mode. Clicking these names will take users to their Search profiles, where they can find more information about the creators and their work.
The company is also working to improve how users discover relevant sources through its AI-powered search experiences.
The latest changes come as AI-generated search responses reshape how people discover information online. By making links more visible and providing additional context about sources, Google aims to help users explore websites and reporting alongside AI-generated answers.
Google has also said more than 400 publishers are participating in its News AI pilot program, which pays them for using enhanced content in new AI features.
The effectiveness of these updates will depend on whether improved link visibility encourages more users to visit publishers' websites and engage with original content rather than relying solely on AI-generated summaries.