Block of Citations Tested Beneath AI Overview Summary

03/26/26
Source: Search Engine Roundtable by barry@rustybrick.com (Barry Schwartz). Read the original article

TL;DR Summary of Google Tests New Citation Format in AI Overviews

Google is experimenting with a new citation display featuring large blue link cards below AI summary results. This design includes thumbnails, site names, favicons, and descriptions but appears visually unappealing and cluttered. Observers speculate it may be a bug or an early test unlikely to be fully implemented. The format recalls earlier styles from Google’s SGE era and has sparked discussion about usability and click-through impact.

Optimixed’s Overview: Evaluating Google’s Experimental Citation Cards in AI Summaries

Background on the Citation Format Test

Google has introduced a new way of presenting citations in its AI-generated overview panels. Instead of the usual compact links displayed on the side, this test features a prominent large blue card beneath the AI summary. The card is segmented like merged table cells and includes various elements:

  • A thumbnail image (with unclear relevance)
  • Site name and favicon
  • Description snippet
  • Page title

Visual and Functional Assessment

Early feedback indicates that this format is visually overwhelming and detracts from the clean presentation users expect. The oversized card seems disproportionate and awkwardly positioned, leading some to speculate it may be a design flaw or bug. This approach contrasts with previous iterations where citation cards maintained more modest sizing and alignment.

Implications and Outlook

While the increased visibility of the citation cards might drive more clicks, the current design raises concerns about user experience and aesthetic appeal. Given these issues, it is unlikely Google will roll out this exact format widely. The test, reminiscent of earlier Search Generative Experience (SGE) citation styles, continues to fuel discussion among SEO and search community forums regarding optimal citation presentation in AI-driven search results.