State of AEO in 2026

Global marketers are buzzing about Answer Engine Optimization (AEO).

More than half of marketers say their businesses are already optimizing content for answer engines, and many are already seeing positive results.

However, AEO is still an emerging channel for SMBs and growing businesses to get in on. In the State of AEO report, you'll discover data to help you adapt to the new era of search and discovery and learn:

Best practices for scalable AEO, based on insights from 4K+ global marketers.
Top citation themes from 6+ answer engines to help you understand what answer engines cite most often.
B2B vs. B2C AEO comparisons to help you benchmark yourself against brands like yours.

Key Stats to Know

58%

of marketers say their businesses are optimizing content for answer engines.
44%

of marketers have made a business purchase based on brands they've discovered through answer engines.
433%

HubSpot saw 433% brand citation improvement from doubling down on AEO.

"Answer engines can achieve a level of personalization not possible with traditional search, which aids in the consideration process along a path to purchase. By the time these buyers land on a web page, they are much more qualified."

Amanda Sellers

SEO & AEO Strategist, HubSpot

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The State of AEO in 2026

Be the business AI recommends.

The State of AEO in 2026

Global marketers are buzzing about Answer Engine Optimization (AEO).

Key Stats to Know

"Answer engines can achieve a level of personalization not possible with traditional search, which aids in the consideration process along a path to purchase. By the time these buyers land on a web page, they are much more qualified."

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The State of AEO in 2026