At the same time, Google is working on optimizing the links embedded in AI Mode
With new link carousels on desktop and improved inline links, the company aims to increase click-through rates after discovering that many websites were receiving less traffic from AI-powered search. The "Web Guide" is also being further developed to direct users more specifically to relevant content. However, AI Mode remains a challenge for website operators, as search behavior is changing significantly and traditional traffic sources are declining in importance.
Cloudflare launches AI Crawl Control: AI bots should pay for access
Cloudflare has officially released its new AI Crawl Control feature. This gives website operators the ability to specifically control access by AI crawlers. The dashboard allows them to specify which bots are allowed to access content and which are blocked. A particularly interesting feature is that operators can return the HTTP status code 402 macedonia cell phone database ("Payment Required") along with a customized message when blocking content. This allows for the inclusion of license notices or payment requests, for example. At the same time, Cloudflare is testing a pay-per-crawl model, in which AI systems would have to pay per access. The offering is complemented by detailed analyses of crawler activities and their compliance with regulations. For many publishers, the tool could be a step toward making the use of their content by AI providers more transparent – and at the same time opening up new monetization opportunities.
Instagram strengthens Reels: new tools for previews, AI search and picture-in-picture
Instagram is expanding the possibilities surrounding Reels with several new features. With the "Send a Preview" function , creators can send their Reels drafts directly within the app to selected contacts for easy feedback. At the same time, the platform is introducing AI-supported search shortcuts that are intended to direct users more quickly to relevant content – inspired by the functionality of TikTok's search. In addition, Instagram is currently testing picture-in-picture for Reels : videos continue to play in a small window, even when the app is in the background. This feature, which is previously mainly known from YouTube, is intended to increase dwell time. Taken together, the new functions strengthen both creative collaboration and the user experience and underscore the growing importance of Reels in the Instagram ecosystem.