SEO is constantly evolving – and with the rapid rise of AI, new terms are entering the scene. In this article, we break down some of the most relevant concepts right now: AIO, GEO, AEO, and SXO. What do they mean, why do they matter, and how do you actually work with them?
Quick overview: what do the terms mean?
What is SEO?
SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is about improving your website’s visibility in organic (non-paid) search results. By optimizing your content, structure, and technical foundation, you increase your chances of ranking higher and reaching more people.
Why work with SEO?
- Better visibility in search results
- Increased organic traffic
- Reach the right audience at the right time
- Cost-effective marketing
Core SEO Tactics
- Keyword research
Understand what your audience is searching for. Use keywords naturally in headings, copy, metadata, and links.
- Content
Create relevant content that answers user questions. Keep it simple, scannable, and easy to digest.
- On-page SEO
Optimize titles, meta descriptions, alt texts, and internal links.
- Technical SEO
Ensure fast loading times, mobile usability, clean code, and structured data.
- Link strategy
Build relevant internal and external links to support navigation and authority.
What is AIO?
AIO (Artificial Intelligence Optimization) is about making your content readable and usable for AI models like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude. The better AI understands your content, the more likely it is to reference it in generated responses.
Why AIO matters
- Helps AI interpret your information correctly
- Increases your chances of being selected as a trusted source
- Reduces risk of misinterpretation or factual errors
- Builds digital credibility and authority
How to optimize for AIO
- Clear structure
Use headings, bullet points, and logical formatting.
- Facts + sources
Include verifiable information and link to reputable sources.
- Simple language
Write clearly, directly, and avoid jargon or vague expressions.
- Consistent terminology
Use the same terms throughout your content.
What is GEO?
GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) focuses on optimizing content to be featured in AI-generated answers. That includes being quoted, summarized, or recommended by AI search tools like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and others.
Why GEO matters
- Increases your chances of being cited by AI
- Expands your reach via emerging AI-based search
- Helps you stay visible even when search behavior shifts
How to optimize for GEO
- Give direct answers early
Write clear summaries at the top of your content.
- Use FAQ and bullet formats
AI favors structured Q&A and list-based layouts.
- Keep your content fresh
AI tools tend to prioritize up-to-date information.
- Write simply and quote-friendly
Avoid overly technical language and long sentences.
What is AEO?
AEO (Answer Engine Optimization) is about creating content that serves as a complete answer – right in the search results or AI-generated response – without the user needing to click. This increases your chances of appearing in featured snippets (aka “position zero”)..
Why AEO matters
- Positions your content at the top of search results
- Delivers direct, relevant answers
- Builds trust and credibility as a source
How to optimize for AEO
- Answer common questions clearly
Use definitions, steps, or lists.
- Implement schema markup
Help search engines understand your content type.
- Match content format to query type:
“What is…” → Write a clear text definition
“How to…” → Use a numbered list
“Benefits of…” → Use bullet points
How do AIO, GEO, and AEO differ?
They might sound similar, and yes – there’s some overlap. But each focuses on a different aspect of the AI-driven search experience:
Want to stay ahead? Work with all three. Together, they ensure your content is clear, visible in AI-generated results, and valuable to real users.
What is SXO?
SXO (Search Experience Optimization) is the combination of SEO and UX (User Experience). It’s about not just driving traffic, but creating a meaningful experience that leads to action – like a purchase, booking, or contact.
Why SXO matters
- Improves conversion rates
- Increases engagement and time on site
- Creates a positive experience – something Google rewards too
How to work with SXO
- Match search intent
Make sure your content answers what users are really looking for.
- Fast, stable pages
Ensure quick loading and technical quality.
- Logical, visual structure
Use headlines, icons, white space, and scannable layouts.
- Clear CTAs
Guide users toward what you want them to do next.
Future-proof SEO means going beyond Google
It’s no longer enough to just rank in traditional search results. Today, you also need to consider how AI interprets your content, how you answer user questions, and how you deliver a great experience for the person behind the search.
By working across SEO, AIO, GEO, AEO, and SXO, you build a strategy that covers it all: technology, content, and user value.
Let’s make sure your content is built for humans and ready for AI. Get in touch – we’re happy to help you take the next step.
Quick guide: new SEO concepts – how they all connect
This overview gives you a clear breakdown of each term – what it means, where to focus, how to take action, and what kind of impact to expect. A hands-on guide to help you move forward with your strategy.
