More than half of Indians now use AI tools to search for information: Survey

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly changing how Indians search for information, with a majority of users now relying on AI-powered assistants and chatbots alongside traditional search engines, according to a new YouGov survey. The survey, conducted among 1,004 Indian adults aged 18 and above, found that over half of respondents have incorporated AI tools into their search habits, highlighting the technology’s growing role in everyday information discovery.

According to the findings, 27 per cent of respondents said AI tools serve as their primary starting point when searching for information. Instead of heading directly to conventional search engines, these users prefer AI assistants that provide quick, summarised, and conversational responses to their queries.

Meanwhile, another 36 per cent reported using AI tools after conducting searches through traditional methods. This suggests that many users are turning to AI to simplify complex information, compare sources, or gain clearer explanations after gathering initial results online.

The findings indicate a significant shift in digital behaviour, with AI increasingly complementing rather than replacing conventional search platforms. Users appear to value AI’s ability to deliver personalised, context-aware, and concise answers, which makes it an important part of the modern search experience.

The survey also reflects the growing acceptance of generative AI technologies in India, where consumers are becoming more comfortable integrating AI into their daily routines for education, work, decision-making, and general knowledge.

As AI capabilities continue to evolve, experts expect the role of intelligent assistants in online search to expand further. While traditional search engines remain widely used, the latest findings suggest that AI-powered search is steadily becoming a mainstream tool for accessing information, signalling a new phase in how people interact with digital knowledge.