Comparison
AEO targets extraction — becoming the answer lifted from your page. GEO targets attribution — being cited as a source inside a generated response. The technical work overlaps heavily; the difference is which observable event you are measuring and optimising toward.
When the first option wins
AEO matters more for direct informational questions with a single correct answer, where extraction is likely and citation is not required.
When the second option wins
GEO matters more for recommendation and comparison prompts, where the model synthesises across sources and citation is the only route into the answer.
Verdict
Most vendors use these terms interchangeably, which is usually harmless but occasionally hides a measurement gap. Ask which event is being tracked.
Not sure which applies to you? Describe the situation.
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