Definition
SGE (Search Generative Experience) is the experimental program launched by Google in 2023 via Search Labs, a precursor to AI Overviews. It introduced for the first time AI-generated answers at the heart of Google's search experience. SGE allowed users to get contextual summaries, ask follow-up questions, and explore topics conversationally. Although the term SGE was progressively replaced by AI Overviews during large-scale deployment, it remains an important reference in search evolution and profoundly influenced modern SEO strategies.
Key Points
- Experimental program that preceded AI Overviews
- Introduced AI answers in Google search
- Accelerated adoption of GEO strategies by SEO professionals
Practical Examples
Experimental phase
In 2023, users enrolled in Google Search Labs could activate SGE to get AI answers on complex queries like 'best link building strategy for an e-commerce site'.
Transition to AI Overviews
An SEO agency that optimized content for SGE maintained its positions during the transition to AI Overviews, thanks to content structure already adapted to generative engines.
Frequently Asked Questions
SGE as an experimental program was replaced by AI Overviews, deployed at scale in Google search results. The concept remains the same (AI-generated answers) but the format and availability have evolved.
SGE was the experimental phase available only via Search Labs, while AI Overviews are the version deployed for all users. AI Overviews are more refined, better integrated into SERPs, and cover more queries.
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Last updated: 2026-02-07