Definition
Search Engine OptimizationSEO
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is the practice of optimizing a website to rank well in traditional search engine results pages. Its technical foundations, crawlability, speed, structured data, are exactly what AEO and GEO build on.
SEO targets a ranked list of links; AEO targets being the answer itself. They're complementary, not opposed. Comparison: AEO vs SEO vs GEO.
Does SEO still matter with AI search?
Yes. Classic search isn't disappearing, and SEO fundamentals like crawlability, speed and structured data are prerequisites for AI visibility too. AEO extends SEO rather than replacing it.