Google AI refers to the AI answers Google places inside Search, including AI Overviews and AI Mode, that summarize information and can cite local businesses.
For local businesses, Google AI is tied closely to the same foundation that already matters in Google Search: crawlable pages, helpful content, Google Business Profile data, reviews, clear location signals, and structured information Google can understand.
How it affects customers
When someone asks a local question, Google AI may answer before the traditional search results. If your business is not cited or recommended in that answer, the customer may never scroll far enough to find you.
What improves your chances
Strong SEO still matters. So do answer focused service pages, accurate Google Business Profile information, local authority, schema markup, recent reviews, and content that answers customer questions plainly.