Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly changing the way we use the Internet. From search engines to social media to online shopping—the impact of AI is becoming evident everywhere. The technology company Google says that as people’s online search style has changed, they are also having to make major changes in the search system.
Robbie Stein, Product Vice President of Google Search, said that now users are not asking short or simple words like before, but rather long and complex questions. There are no direct answers to many questions anywhere on the internet. That’s why Google is introducing a new feature that combines information from different websites to create custom visuals, interactive graphics, and even small apps.
According to experts, people are now gradually starting to search for information using AI apps like ChatGPT. As a result, the search language is also changing. Where earlier searches were done with two or three words, many people are now entering full sentences or conversational queries. According to research firm Semrush—searches longer than 11 words have increased significantly. At the same time, conversational search volume is also increasing rapidly.
Google says this is the biggest change to their search box in 25 years. In the new version, users can search not only by text, but also by adding images, files or browser tabs. According to Google, searches made by taking a picture or marking something on the screen are growing at a rate of about 60 percent annually.
Experts say that ChatGPT has changed people’s search habits. Now people don’t just look for information; Rather, AI is also being used to compare, analyze and summarize. However, Google is still used more for direct information or shopping related searches.
The impact of AI is also growing on social media. Characters like Aitana Lopez, a popular AI influencer on Instagram, have gained millions of followers despite not being real people. Brands are also now investing heavily in AI-driven content. Because these virtual influencers are relatively cheap and can be easily adapted to different campaigns.
AI is starting to play a big role in online shopping as well. According to Adobe data, AI-related traffic to US retail websites increased by nearly 393 percent in the first three months of 2026. Google, Amazon, Meta and OpenAI have already launched AI-based shopping tools.
But however pervasive AI becomes, experts believe the need for human-powered quality websites is far from over. Because ultimately the human role is the most important for reliable data, analysis and creative content.
