AI Reshapes Local Search: New Strategies Required for 2025 and Beyond

The Evolution of Search Technology

Major changes in AI-driven search experiences are forcing businesses to adapt their local search strategies, as traditional keyword-driven search results give way to AI-powered summaries and automated interactions, according to new research from DAC Group. Many businesses are discovering that visibility issues in Google search results can significantly impact their online presence.

The transformation affects how businesses appear in search results and requires new approaches to maintain visibility across multiple platforms, including Google's AI Overviews, TikTok, Reddit, and emerging platforms like Perplexity AI.

Dramatic Changes in Search Result Visibility

Google's implementation of AI Overviews has dramatically altered search results pages, with AI-generated summaries often appearing above traditional links. A DAC study of over 700 search results across four major industries revealed that only 1% of queries triggered both AI Overviews and Maps Pack results simultaneously.

The research shows a clear division between query types: informational queries (using words like "how" and "why") triggered AI Overviews 28% of the time, while location-based "near me" searches consistently produced Maps Pack results. Businesses looking to improve their website traffic and search visibility must adapt to these changes.

Strategic Adaptation for Modern Search

Platform Diversification and Generational Shifts

Young consumers are increasingly bypassing traditional search engines. Perplexity AI has gained 22 million monthly active users, while 64% of Gen Z and 49% of Millennials use TikTok for search purposes. Reddit has become a trusted recommendation source, with 70% of its users being Millennials or Gen Z.

"The generational differences in search behavior are clear," notes the DAC report. "Gen Z often turns to TikTok and Reddit for inspiration and discovery rather than Google, while older generations still prefer traditional search methods but are becoming more accepting of AI-generated summaries."

Preparing for an AI-Driven Future

Businesses must prepare for significant operational changes as AI begins to automate customer interactions. Google's experimental "Call with AI" feature allows AI assistants to contact businesses directly, potentially increasing call volume while changing the nature of customer interactions. For optimal results, businesses should leverage Google's powerful business growth tools alongside their AI adaptation strategies.

Essential adaptation strategies include:

• Developing content strategies that work across multiple platforms
• Optimizing for both AI Overviews and Maps Pack visibility
• Ensuring business information is structured and machine-readable
• Maintaining strong presence on alternative search platforms
• Preparing for automated customer interactions

According to recent research from Google's Search Central, the fundamentals of local search success remain constant: relevance, trust, and local authority continue to matter. However, businesses must now balance these traditional elements with new technical requirements and platform-specific optimization strategies.

The shift toward AI-driven search represents both a challenge and opportunity for businesses willing to adapt their local search strategies for this new era of digital discovery.