May 2, 2025
The world of search and AI is evolving fast, with major updates that signal a shift in how users interact with digital tools. From a surprising number of Google users sticking with Bing after a trial, to ChatGPT rolling out shopping and WhatsApp integrations, and Google’s AI Mode becoming widely available—these changes are reshaping habits. Add to that Pinterest’s growing role as a search starting point and Google testing ads inside AI chatbots, and it’s clear: the search landscape is no longer business as usual.
We’re also seeing advancements in Google Ads tools, updates to international SEO practices, and surprising insights from AI-driven user behavior. Whether you’re focused on ecommerce, SEO, or ad safety, these updates offer key takeaways that could influence your next move.
Let’s break down the most important stories and what they mean for your marketing strategy.
Table of Content
Last week in Digital Marketing, week 18 ,2025
33% of Google users stuck with Bing after a two-week trial
A recent study revealed that one-third of habitual Google users continued using Bing after a two-week trial period. This finding suggests that Google's dominance in the search engine market may be influenced more by default settings and user habits than by perceived superiority. The study indicates that when users are exposed to alternative search engines like Bing, their perceptions of quality can improve, leading to sustained usage.
The research implies that many users might avoid exploring alternatives simply because they haven't given them a fair chance. This challenges the notion that Google's market share is solely due to its quality and raises questions about the impact of default settings on user behavior. Encouraging users to try different search engines could foster a more competitive and diverse search landscape.
ChatGPT adds shopping, WhatsApp search, and improved citations
OpenAI has introduced new features to ChatGPT, enhancing its utility for users. The chatbot now offers shopping capabilities, allowing users to receive product recommendations complete with images, prices, and reviews. These results are organic and not influenced by advertisements, aiming to provide a more personalized shopping experience.
Additionally, ChatGPT has expanded its reach by integrating with WhatsApp, enabling users to interact with the AI through messaging. The update also includes improved citation features, allowing multiple sources to be referenced within a single response. These enhancements aim to make ChatGPT a more comprehensive tool for information retrieval and decision-making.
Google AI mode exits waitlist, now available to all US users
Google has expanded access to its AI mode in Search, making it available to all U.S. users who opt in via Google Labs. This feature offers a more conversational and AI-driven search experience, providing AI-generated answers sourced from Google's search index. Unlike traditional search results, AI mode presents information in a more interactive and user-friendly manner.
The update includes new functionalities such as visual cards displaying detailed information about businesses and products, including hours, reviews, and prices. Users can also revisit past searches through a side panel, enhancing the overall search experience. By removing the waitlist and making AI mode more accessible, Google aims to integrate advanced AI capabilities into mainstream search functions.
Google AdSense displaying ads in AI chatbots
Google AdSense has begun testing the integration of ads within AI chatbots, expanding its advertising reach into conversational AI platforms. This initiative involves partnerships with AI search apps like iAsk and Liner, allowing them to display AdSense ads within chat responses.
By incorporating ads into AI-driven conversations, Google aims to tap into the growing market of AI chatbots and provide monetization opportunities for developers. This move reflects a broader strategy to adapt advertising models to emerging technologies and user behaviors in the digital landscape.
36% of consumers start searching on Pinterest, not Google
A recent survey indicates that 36% of consumers initiate their online searches on Pinterest instead of Google, with the percentage rising to 39% among Gen Z users. This trend highlights Pinterest's growing role as a discovery platform, particularly for visual and lifestyle-related content.
The shift suggests that consumers are seeking more curated and visually engaging search experiences, which Pinterest provides through its image-centric interface. For marketers and businesses, this underscores the importance of optimizing content for platforms beyond traditional search engines to reach audiences effectively.
Stay tuned for next week's digital marketing highlights!
A quick recap of the latest and most important trends, insights, and news shaping the digital marketing landscape, see you next week.
Junior content marketer
Aron is a 22-year-old Junior content marketer with a focus on digital strategy and audience engagement. He is gaining experience in creating and optimizing content to improve brand visibility and connect with target audiences. Always eager to learn, Aron stays updated on content trends and marketing techniques to contribute effectively to campaigns and projects.
