Google is Testing AI-Generated Descriptions in Search Results
Google seems to be running a test where AI-generated descriptions appear in place of the usual snippets pulled from page content or meta descriptions.
Right now, these are showing up mostly for Reddit results in the main SERPs.
What stands out is the length of these AI-generated descriptions. A standard snippet usually takes up no more than two lines. The AI versions often run to three or a little more, though not always. Extra lines mean more screen space for one result, and less for the results below. That could reduce CTR for results without AI descriptions.
This test appears limited to the main SERPs. You can still see the traditional snippets for these Reddit results if you switch to the ‘Web’ tab.
What this means for Meta descriptions and SEO
Meta descriptions have never been a strong ranking factor, and Google rewrites most of them. That’s why writing unique descriptions at scale has always been a lower-priority SEO task.
For sites with thousands of pages, this type of experiment could be useful. If AI-generated descriptions replace missing or low-quality ones, CTR may improve. The risk is accuracy. If the AI-generated descriptions introduces errors or misleading details due to hallucination, it could confuse searchers and hurt trust.
If these AI-generated descriptions stick, they could slightly affect how users interact with results. Even small changes in snippet length and wording can alter visibility and CTR.
It’s still only a test, but one worth keeping an eye on.
