Gemini 3 becomes the default model for AI Overviews

Google has announced two new updates intended to improve users’ search experience. 

It has made Gemini 3, Google’s most advanced AI multimodal series, the new default model for AI Overviews globally. This upgrade brings the same reasoning capabilities that have been powering AI Mode to the AI-generated answers that appear at the top of Google Search. 

Google has also improved the transition from AI Overviews to AI Mode, creating a more seamless experience whereby users can ask a follow-up question directly from an AI Overview and jump into AI Mode. 

Robby Stein, VP of Product, Google Search, said in a blogpost: “In our testing, we’ve found that people prefer an experience that flows naturally into a conversation – and that asking follow-up questions while keeping the context from AI Overviews makes Search more helpful.

It’s one fluid experience with prominent links to continue exploring: a quick snapshot when you need it, and a deeper conversation when you want it. So next time you have a question, find your nearest Google search bar, and just ask anything.”

For advertisers, the change further emphasises the importance of Generative Engine Optimisation (GEO). 

As the search landscape continues to change, with traditional SEO practices under pressure from new-wave metrics such as citations, advertisers need to be flexible in their approach to content, and iterate based on what works and, perhaps more importantly, what doesn’t.

The story first appeared on Campaign's sister publication, Performance Marketing World.