Intro
Google's John Mueller has clarified that the colors used in Google AI Overviews do not indicate the confidence level of the responses. This comes as a response to a question about the significance of these colors in the AI-generated answer boxes.
Clarification on Color Usage
When the Search Generative Experience (SGE), now known as AI Overviews, was first introduced, Google explained that the colors were meant to enhance the user experience by reflecting the journey types and the query intent. They were primarily intended to be visually engaging and fun, rather than indicative of the confidence in the accuracy of the responses.
John Mueller's Response
John Mueller was asked on X, "Are the colors of the AI Overviews indicating confidence in the responses?" He responded succinctly, "no."
Color Reflects Journey Types and Query Intent
Google has stated that the color of the generative AI answer box changes to "reflect specific journey types and the query intent itself." This means the colors are designed to match the nature of the user's search journey, making the interface more intuitive and visually appealing.
Examples of AI Overview Colors
Here is an example showing three different queries, each with a different AI Overview presented in a distinct color:
The color variations are meant to enhance the user experience by visually differentiating the types of journeys and intents behind different queries.
Conclusion
The use of colors in Google AI Overviews is purely for aesthetic and functional differentiation of search journeys and query intents, not for indicating the confidence level of the AI-generated responses. This design choice aims to make the user interface more engaging and intuitive without implying any quality judgment about the information provided.
