AI Search is on the Rise—But Why Are People Still Sticking with Google?

AI-powered search tools like ChatGPT, Bard, and Claude are gaining traction, but are they replacing traditional search engines? A recent Higher Visibility survey (via Search Engine Land) suggests not yet. Here are three key takeaways:

1️⃣ AI Search is Growing, But Google Still Dominates

• 71.5% of people have tried AI search tools, but nearly 80% still prefer Google and Bing for everyday searches.

• AI search is being used for niche queries, but it hasn’t replaced traditional search for general information.

2️⃣ Search Preferences Vary by Generation

• Gen Z (18-26) leads AI adoption and prefers social media for discovering new products.

• Millennials (27-42) balance AI and traditional search for work, learning, and shopping.

• Gen X (43-58) and Boomers (59-76) still favor Google and Bing but have started experimenting with AI.

3️⃣ Search Depends on the Goal

• General info → Google & Bing

• Shopping research → AI & traditional search

• Discovery shopping → Social media (TikTok, Instagram, Pinterest)

• Local businesses → Google Maps & social media

💡 The big takeaway? AI search is reshaping how we find information, but it’s not replacing traditional search—at least not yet. Different platforms serve different purposes, and user behavior continues to evolve.

How are you using AI search? Have you noticed a shift in your own habits? Let’s discuss it here!