Travel Experts Discuss Google’s Search Dominance Amid AI Disruption

Google’s online search dominance is under increased scrutiny, with the U.K.’s Competition and Markets Authority recently launching an investigation into its market power. While regulators examine its impact on competition, industry leaders are debating whether AI advancements could challenge Google’s long-standing dominance in search.

At The Phocuswright Conference, a panel titled “Travel’s Tech-Driven Retail Revolution” explored the potential disruption. Kristen Dalton, president of Tripadvisor, acknowledged Google’s strong position but noted the rise of new search tools. “Google is well-positioned to play a compelling role in generative search, but evolving technologies open new channels for competitors,” she said, pointing to platforms like TikTok and OpenAI’s SearchGPT.

Noreen Henry, chief revenue officer at Sojern, agreed. “Google is a formidable player, but this moment presents opportunities for others to innovate and gain ground,” she said.

Pablo Delgado, CEO of Mirai, went further, suggesting that Google faces its greatest challenge in decades. “If you analyze Google’s dominance by age group, younger generations are shifting away from traditional search engines. My teenage daughter rarely uses Google—her world revolves around Snapchat, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube,” Delgado explained.

The panelists also discussed broader trends, including the growing influence of personalized content, privacy concerns, and the evolving role of influencer marketing in travel.

With regulators and competitors closely watching Google’s next moves, the future of travel search appears poised for significant transformation.

Related news: https://airguide.info/category/air-travel-business/artificial-intelligence/, https://airguide.info/category/air-travel-business/travel-business/