OpenAI’s ChatGPT has captured 17-18% of the global search market as of January 2026. This is the first time in over 20 years that a competitor has held double-digit share against Google’s dominance.
While Google still controls 78-80% of searches, the shift shows how users are changing the way they find information. Instead of clicking links, many now receive direct, synthesized answers from ChatGPT.
The competition is growing. Google launched Gemini 3 on November 18, 2025, and Gemini 3 Flash on December 17.
Gemini’s generative AI web traffic rose from 5.4% to 18.2% in one year. Meanwhile, ChatGPT’s share fell from 87.2% to 68%. However, ChatGPT users spend longer on the platform, averaging 13-minute sessions, compared to Google’s 6 minutes.
ChatGPT Search Market Share: Market Trends and Platform Strengths
Industry analysts say the AI search market is moving toward “winner take all” dynamics.
ChatGPT has 800-900 million weekly active users, far more than Gemini, which reaches about 35% of that on web and 40% on mobile. Gemini is growing faster among desktop users.
Key Observations:
- ChatGPT leads in informational and creative searches.
- Google dominates transactional and navigational queries.
- Semrush data: 88% of AI-powered queries are informational; only 1.76% are transactional.
- Microsoft benefits from OpenAI’s large user base through its partnership.
Also read about: ChatGPT Thinking Mode Toggle to Mobile Apps
Impact on Publishers and Revenue
The rise of AI-synthesized answers is creating a “zero-click” reality. Over 65% of searches are now resolved directly on results pages.
Publishers report 20-60% declines in traffic, translating to around $2 billion in lost ad revenue annually.
This trend has led to Generative Engine Optimization (GEO), where publishers aim to be cited in AI responses instead of traditional rankings.
Both OpenAI and Google have made licensing deals with major media companies. Smaller independent publishers face growing challenges.
The surge in ChatGPT’s reach marks a major shift in online search. Users increasingly expect quick, complete answers rather than browsing multiple websites, signaling a new era for search engines and content publishers alike.
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