AI Tools Are Growing Fast, But Search Engines Still Rule

Quicke Marketing
Oct 22
3 min read

Artificial intelligence is changing the way people find information, but it hasn’t replaced search engines just yet. According to a new report by SparkToro and Datos, tools like ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and Perplexity are becoming increasingly popular, but users still rely heavily on Google.

In fact, most people are using both, often side by side. For marketers and business owners, this means SEO isn’t going anywhere. Instead, it’s evolving.

Blue and green digital background with binary code and a glowing circular design highlighting the letters “AI,” representing artificial intelligence and modern technology.

Key Insights: AI and Search Work Together

AI use is on the rise: Roughly 20% of Americans use AI tools 10+ times per month, while 40% use them at least once monthly.
Search remains dominant: 95% of Americans use search engines monthly, 86% use them frequently.
AI boosts search activity: Users who rely on tools like ChatGPT actually search more often, increasing weekly search activity from 10.5 to 12.6 times.
Growth is steady, not explosive: AI adoption surged early but has now leveled out since late 2024.
Seasonal dips: Both AI and search activity decline during summer, indicating their strong connection to education and learning cycles.

Bottom line: AI isn’t replacing Google, it’s enhancing it.

What This Means for Small Businesses

AI tools make it easier for people to find summarized information, but when users want trusted, detailed answers, they still click through to websites. That means your online visibility still depends on how well your business ranks in search results.

Businesses that combine AI-driven insights with strong SEO strategies will win the competition for visibility. Think of AI as your digital assistant, not your replacement.

Google’s New AI-Focused Features to Know About

Google has already begun integrating AI deeper into its tools. Here are some of the latest updates that matter for small businesses and marketers:

AI Overview Rank Tracking: Keyword ranking tools now track performance in Google’s AI Overview results.
AI Traffic in Google Analytics: You can now view how many visitors come to your site via AI tools like ChatGPT or Gemini.
AI Summary in SEO Audits: Quick AI summaries are being added to help users identify key takeaways faster.
Conversation Module AI Summaries: Get instant AI-generated summaries of your client chats or reports.
Grid Ranking: View how your Google Business Profile performs across your local service area.

These features make it easier to see how AI influences visibility and customer behavior, giving you a full picture of your marketing impact.

Google’s Update to Business Profile Posts

Google also refreshed its Business Profile Posts Tool in August 2025, making it simpler to post updates, events, and promotions directly to Google Maps and Search listings.

Highlights of the Update

Centralized Dashboard: Manage all posts in one hub.
Unified Creation Flow: Create updates, offers, or events from a single streamlined box.
Polished Interface: Cleaner layout and improved usability.

Quick Tips for Businesses

Post weekly to stay visible (posts expire after seven days).
Use engaging visuals — short videos or custom photos perform best.
Add strong CTAs like “Learn More” or “Book Now.”
Showcase limited-time offers or seasonal highlights.
Use location-based keywords to boost local visibility.

The Takeaway

AI is powerful, but SEO still drives discovery. While AI tools summarize information, people still visit websites to learn, shop, and connect. For small businesses, staying ahead means combining both worlds, optimizing for Google’s algorithms while embracing AI-driven insights.

At Quicke Marketing, we help small businesses thrive in this evolving landscape by creating strong SEO foundations, integrating AI tools, and keeping your Google Business Profile active and optimized.