Ep 181: AI in Local SEO, Siri Finally Gets Local Search, ChatGPT's Growing User Base

AI in Local SEO: Challenges and Opportunities, Apple Siri Finally Gets Local Search, ChatGPT's Growing User Base and Implications for Google

Ep 181: AI in Local SEO, Siri Finally Gets Local Search,  ChatGPT's Growing User Base
The new Siri with Apple Intelligence can now do Local search

Part 1 starts 00:13 - AI in Local SEO: Challenges and Opportunities

We dive into how AI is reshaping local search. Key insights from Andrew Shotland’s analysis reveal that Google’s AI overviews appear inconsistently in local searches, mainly showing up for broader queries, while lower funnel searches rely on the local pack. New platforms like Perplexity, with licensing from Yelp, seem to offer promising results for complex local queries, potentially challenging Google’s dominance in local search.

Segment Reference Articles 

The State of Local AI Search Results Near You

Way-Too-Early Thoughts on SearchGPT for Local Search

Local SEO for ChatGPT

Part 2 starts 11:10 - Apple Siri Finally Gets Local Search

Mike showcases Apple’s upgraded Siri new features in iOS 18.1  that demonstrate a largely hidden but significant leap in local search capabilities. By allowing for text input and recognizing contextual cues, Siri can now provide tailored local results from any screen. Apple is taking a calculated approach to search and AI, suggesting it could take one of several directions. Long haul they appear to be banking on AI based search becoming a dominant model. They appear to  be gradually developing a more functional search alternative. For it to be successful Apple needs the new SIRI to be successful and to increase its visibility. Apple, though recognizes that the change to new search modalities might take three to four and they are apparently leaving themselves open for appropriate partnerships if they lose Google’s ~$20 billion search payment.

Part 3 starts 26:07 - ChatGPT's Growing User Base and Implications for Google

ChatGPT's is experiencing escalating popularity as a search tool, with survey data indicating that nearly half of respondents use it weekly. This rising trend hints at a shifting search landscape, though Google’s latest earnings suggest minimal immediate impact. Google’s has made strategic AI cost reductions and is investing heavily in expanding capabilities, reflecting its response to AI-driven competitors like ChatGPT

Segment Reference Articles:

Inbound or outbound? What 1,000 consumers reveal about search, social and AI

Google's Q3 Momentum