Every few months a new headline says search is dead. AI assistants like ChatGPT now answer questions people used to type into Google, and many business owners are asking whether SEO is still worth it.

The data so far says yes. People are adding AI tools to how they search, not replacing Google with them.

What the numbers show

Similarweb data shared in September 2025 found that around 95% of ChatGPT users also visited Google in the same month, while only about 14% of Google users visited ChatGPT. Almost every AI user is still a Google user. (Source: Search Engine Land)

Why people use both

Different jobs, different tools

People use AI to brainstorm and get a first explanation. When they are ready to act, such as finding a clinic nearby or comparing prices, they go to Google and Google Maps.

Checking the answer

AI answers can be wrong or out of date, so many users cross-check them with a normal search before spending money.

What this means for your business

• Keep investing in SEO. Buyers are still searching on Google, especially for local services.
• Answer real questions clearly. Those pages rank on Google and get quoted by AI tools.
• Do not block AI crawlers by accident. Check your robots.txt.
• Keep your Google Business Profile complete. Hours, photos and reviews still decide who gets the call.

The short version

AI search is worth watching, but it has not replaced Google. A fast, clear, well-optimised website works for both.