Is Google Search losing its spark? a survey says yes

Google Search has been a big part of our lives for over 20 years. The company keeps trying to make searching better for everyone, but it looks like those efforts might not be working. A new survey suggests that Google Search, once the top spot for finding answers, isn’t as helpful as it used to be.

Google Search Feels Less Helpful

The Verge teamed up with Two Cents Insights and Vox Media’s research group to ask over 2,000 U.S. adults about Google Search. The results were eye-opening. About 66% of people said the info they find on Google isn’t as good as it once was. Plus, 42% think search engines like Google are getting less useful and harder to trust for solid facts. This shows folks are starting to question where they get their info.

People Turn to Communities and Chatbots

Instead of sticking with search engines, many are finding answers elsewhere. Around 55% of those surveyed said they rely on online communities for information. Meanwhile, 52% are using chatbots or even TikTok to look things up. The survey also found that younger people—53% of millennials and 61% of Gen Z—prefer AI tools over Google for digging into topics.

Shopping Results Bug Users

Google’s shopping results aren’t winning fans either. A whopping 76% of people said that seeing so many “sponsored” or “promoted” items—over a quarter of the results—makes them less helpful. Only 14% found these results “very useful,” showing most aren’t thrilled with the ads popping up.

Trouble in the EU and Beyond

The survey wrapped up by saying that old-school tech like Google and some social platforms are losing trust fast. Google’s also facing heat from EU regulators over its search practices. Lately, the company’s been hit with new charges in the EU about unfair search results, adding to its challenges. In short, Google Search might not be the king of info it once was, as people hunt for better, truer answers elsewhere.