SEO vs AEO: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters in 2025

Kristians Stepins • 23 April 2025
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Answer Engine Optimisation (AEO) is becoming essential in today’s AI-first web. But what is AEO exactly, and how is it different from traditional SEO? Let’s break down the meaning of AEO, how it works, and how your business can benefit in 2025.

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What is AEO?

AEO stands for Answer Engine Optimisation. It’s the practice of optimising content so it can be used directly in:


  • Featured snippets on Google
  • Voice assistant answers (like Alexa or Google Assistant)
  • Generative AI responses in tools like Bing Copilot and ChatGPT


Instead of aiming for clicks, AEO aims to make your content the direct answer to a user’s question - right at the top of the search experience.

SEO vs AEO - What’s the Difference?

Feature SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) AEO (Answer Engine Optimisation)
Goal Rank in search engine results Be selected as the best answer
Focus Keywords, backlinks, technical SEO Structured content, questions, user intent
Style Long-form, keyword-rich content Clear, concise, and natural answers
Platforms Search engines (Google, Bing) AI tools, voice search, zero-click results
User Outcome Clicks to your website Immediate answer, featured visibility

Why AEO Matters in 2025

As AI-generated answers and voice search become the norm, being the answer - not just an option - is critical. 70% of users now prefer quick, clear responses over browsing multiple links.


By optimising for AEO, your business gains:



  • Higher authority through featured answers
  • More visibility without relying only on rankings
  • Better reach through voice assistants and AI tools

How to Optimise Your Content for AEO

  • Target real user questions with natural phrasing
  • Include FAQs and short-form summaries (40–60 words)
  • Use structured data (FAQ schema, HowTo schema)
  • Optimise for voice by writing how people speak
  • Organise content around topics, not just keywords

Does AEO Replace SEO?

No - AEO doesn’t replace SEO. It builds on it.


You still need solid SEO practices like:


  • Fast page speed
  • Mobile responsiveness
  • Keyword research
  • Link building


But AEO adds an extra layer of visibility - especially for modern search formats and zero-click interactions.

See AEO in Action

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