TikTok and YouTube are starting to replace Google as the go-to search engine among Gen Zs, according to a recent survey from YPulse via Axios.
According to the study, at least 21% of respondents aged 18 to 24 years old have started using TikTok as their main search query app, while 5% turned to YouTube.
(Photo : Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images)
Google Search remains the most popular search engine for most of Gen Zs, although it has considerably dropped down to 46%.
The findings reflect an earlier survey from the Pew Research Center showing that TikTok and YouTube are currently the most popular social media for younger generations.
At least 93% of teens aged 13 to 17, or nine out of 10, said they prefer YouTube as their main online platform, while 63% chose TikTok. Both placed higher than Snapchat and Instagram.
Also Read: YouTube, TikTok are the Most Used Social Media Apps Among US Teens
Why Does Gen Zs Turning to TikTok, YouTube Over Google for Questions?
The trend of TikTok and YouTube slowly taking over Google Search's users stem from a growing dissatisfaction on the search engine and social media platforms offering more accessible answers to people.
For example, people can easily search for the best restaurant or store near their area on TikTok through the video reviews of other people, allowing a view on genuine reactions towards certain products and businesses.
While the same can be seen on Google, TikTok users can see reviews from other people's firsthand experience rather than limited word reviews.
It does not help that inquiries for any business establishment on Google will be fronted with ads. So far, the same is not as prevalent with TikTok or YouTube.
Related Article: Gen Zs are Relying More on Social Media Influencers for Financial Advice, New Study Says
Google Search Results are Being Filled with AI-Made Content
The same applies towards simple search results with dedicated accounts simplifying complex topics to their viewers, a contrast to Google Search results often populated with AI-generated and spam content.
A study from Germany has highlighted this issue, claiming that low-effort content are being pushed more on top of Google search results just because of search engine optimization.
On the other hand, people have better chances of finding relevant answers on social media based on the number of views and likes.
While search results on TikTok and YouTube are still vulnerable to be manipulated through artificial views, the platforms are more active on cracking down on fake accounts than Google's search engine.
