Google Denies Search Decline Amid AI Chatbot Rise
Google has publicly refuted recent reports suggesting a decline in traditional search engine usage due to the rise of AI chatbots. This statement directly contradicts testimony given by an Apple executive during the ongoing U.S. antitrust lawsuit against Google.
Apple Testimony Sparks Stock Drop
Apple's senior vice president of services, Eddy Cue, testified that Safari users' search engine usage decreased for the first time last month. He suggested a technological shift towards AI-powered tools is impacting traditional search. This news triggered a 7.51% drop in Google's stock price.
Silicon Valley's Shifting Perspective
Some in Silicon Valley consider Google Search a legacy technology. A recent Y Combinator show host reported a 15% drop in their Google Search traffic, attributing it to increased AI chatbot usage. The host observed that many in Silicon Valley now prefer tools like ChatGPT for information retrieval.
“People are now switching their behavior...your default action if you’re looking for information is...ChatGPT or Perplexity...I’ll use Google mostly for navigational...like I’m using eBay or something.”
Google's Response
Google issued a concise statement denying the reported decline. The company claims overall search query growth continues, including an increase from Apple devices.
“We continue to see overall query growth in Search. That includes an increase in total queries coming from Apple’s devices and platforms...people are seeing that Google Search is more useful...and they’re accessing it...in new ways...We’re excited to continue this innovation and look forward to sharing more at Google I/O.”
Google emphasizes users are finding new ways to utilize Search and highlighted upcoming innovations to be revealed at Google I/O.
