Ep 186: The Limits and Future of AI Impact on Maps; Search vs AI: Challenges, Trends, and Consumer Insights
AI struggles with mapping, new capabilities show promise for consumers & professionals. Consumer research on changing search behavior: increasing trust in AI, & openness to alternatives like ChatGPT. Search will evolve to a more seamless and integrated experience, challenging Google.
Part 1 starts 00:13 - AI and Maps: Current Limitations (many) and Future Prospects (good)
We explore a recent piece by cartographer James Killick on how AI will be shaping the geospatial landscape & mapping, despite the mixed results today. Current tools struggle with complex queries, such as mapping open businesses along a route and broader queries that AI should be able to handle. Despite limitations, innovations like geo-trained AI and object classification suggest potential for enhanced location-based services, professional applications, and augmented reality. Emerging technologies may soon enable smoother interaction with geospatial tools and real-time location insights.
Segment Reference Article:
James Killick: Is AI Finally Starting to ‘Get’ Geography?
Part 2 starts 12:42 - Search vs. AI: Consumer Behavior and the Future of Discovery
Insights from a consumer survey shed light on the evolving role of AI in search. While 77% of users find Google easier than three years ago, many are exploring alternatives like ChatGPT for direct answers and conversational capabilities. Trust in AI is growing, with 67% believing it will redefine search within three years. The shift signals a fragmented search ecosystem, where convenience and reliability will shape user behavior.
Consumer Survey: A meaningful minority can live without Google (Paywall)