Google moves AI search links higher and tests official-site and creator links

Key points

• Google says inline links now appear higher in response listings across a greater number of AI Mode and AI Overviews answers.
• A test will place official-site links for task-based searches at the top of responses, with context on why each is useful.
• Preferred Sources timely-article carousels are expanding to more locations and languages, though Google did not name them.
• Creator and publisher names on AI Mode video results are being tested as links to Search profiles; no timeline was given.

Why it matters for marketers: Content teams should check AI Search results in their served markets, since link placement and carousel visibility are changing, and Search Console position data won't reflect inline link moves.