AI Is Changing How We Search Online

The 2026 AI and Search Behavior Study by Eight Oh Two highlights a shift in how people find information online.

Among 500 AI-savvy participants surveyed in November 2025, 37% said they start searches with AI tools like ChatGPT rather than traditional search engines.

Users cite AI’s speed and concise summaries as major advantages, with 60% reporting answers are clearer and more helpful. Traditional search engines remain important for product reviews, news, images, and medical info.

While confidence in AI is strong—80% feel “very” or “somewhat” confident—most users still double-check answers.

Trust varies across sources, with friends and family topping at 27%, AI at 21%, and search engines at 19%. Looking ahead, 63% expect to increase AI usage, while 50% want improvements in citations and fact-checking.