Google Search Console Now Counting AI Mode

06/17/25
Source: Search Engine Roundtable by barry@rustybrick.com (Barry Schwartz). Read the original article

TL;DR Summary of Google Confirms AI Mode Data Is Now Included in Search Console

**Google Search Console** now officially **counts AI Mode data** towards its totals. This means that **impressions, clicks, and positions** generated through AI Mode are integrated with standard Search Console metrics. However, AI Mode data cannot be segmented separately from regular search data. The update reflects Google’s push to incorporate AI-powered search interactions into their core analytics platform.

Optimixed’s Overview: How Google Integrates AI Mode Metrics into Search Console Reporting

Introduction to AI Mode Data Inclusion

Google has updated its Search Console to include data generated from AI Mode, an interactive AI-powered search feature that delivers enhanced responses with links to relevant web pages. This integration means Search Console users will now see combined metrics that reflect both traditional search results and AI Mode interactions.

Key Details on AI Mode Metrics

  • Clicks: Any click on an external link within AI Mode counts as a click in Search Console.
  • Impressions: Standard impression rules apply to AI Mode results, treating them similarly to regular search impressions.
  • Positioning: AI Mode positions follow the same methodology used for Google Search results pages, including carousels and image blocks.
  • Follow-up Queries: Asking follow-up questions within AI Mode counts as new queries, generating fresh impression and click data.

Additional Notes and Limitations

Search Console does not currently count data from experimental features run in Search Labs, as these remain in active development. The update also involved changes to Google’s documentation, confirming the AI Mode rollout and clarifying how AI Overviews and AI Mode data are reported.

Implications for SEO and Analytics

With AI Mode data now integrated, SEO professionals should consider that a portion of search traffic and user engagement may stem from AI-driven interactions. Although segmented reporting for AI Mode is unavailable, the combined metrics provide a more complete picture of how users interact with search results enhanced by AI technology.