Technology has totally altered the way we live and among the most significant changes we observe today is how individuals search information. A couple of years back, we used to sit at a computer and type a couple of words in Google and wait to see the results. Then there were smartphones which made search even faster and easier. Today, the tendency has gone a step further, people do not always type, they just speak.
It is what is referred to as voice search. People no longer have to type in best coffee shop near me, but simply say, Hey Google, where is the best coffee shop nearby? The gadgets such as Google Assistant, Siri, Alexa and Cortana have made this so easy that it has become their daily routine. A person can use his voice to find answers immediately whether he is driving, cooking, exercising, or just having a rest.
This change is not only a trend but a big opportunity and challenge to businesses and brands as well. Voice search is not the same as typing. So, the manner in which your customers search products and services is evolving as well. Unless your brand adapts to this change, you may lose out on reaching a large number of potential customers who will be willing to talk rather than type. That is why you need to know what voice search is, what its importance is, and how you can prepare your brand to it.
What is Voice Search?
Voice search is a new form of locating information via the Internet in which you speak rather than type. You need not type a query on Google or any other search engine, you just need to talk to your phone, computer, or to some smart device, and it provides the answer.
For example:
- An individual seeking to have food in the area does not write best pizza near me. Instead they just say: Hey Google, where can I find the best pizza place near me?
- A person repairing a tap may not go to Google to find out how to repair a tap that is leaking. One will simply say to Alexa: Alexa, how do I stop a dripping tap in the house?
- It is more natural and effortless to use this way of searching, as it is to engage with another person in a conversation.
Why People Love Voice Search?
The voice search has gained such popularity because of a few reasons:
Where Voice Search Really Works?
The voice search is not a phone only service. It can be used on many devices:
- Smartphones (including Siri, Google Assistant, Bixby, and so on).
- Smart speakers (such as Amazon Echo, Google Nest, Apple HomePod)
- Tablets and laptops (including voice assistants).
- Smart televisions and vehicles (browsing shows, music or directions whilst driving).
Why Voice Search is Growing?
Voice search is no longer just a fancy feature. It has become a daily habit for millions of people worldwide. The way people prefer speaking to their devices instead of typing is shaping the future of search. Here are the main reasons behind its rapid growth.
Ease of Living
It is easier and more comfortable to speak, rather than to type, particularly with small Smartphone screens. Voice search also means that individuals no longer need to be concerned with typing in long sentences along with typing errors.
That is why it is much easier and not that irritating to search and this is quite convenient when one is in a hurry.
Faster Than Typing
The average human being is able to speak 150 words in a minute and is only able to type about 40 words in a minute using a smartphone. This also makes voice search much quicker particularly when the question is longer.
The speed is time-saving and efficient in search.
Learn More: How to Reduce Screen Time in Daily Life
Hands-Free Experience
Voice search proves to be very handy when individuals are unable to use hands. That is why it is so famous among drivers, cookers, gym-goers or any other people who are busy with several things at once.
This is an advantage because it is a handy tool in actual life.
Nature of Communication Style
Not only is this a more comfortable type of conversation, but also allows brands to relate more directly to customers. One feels like speaking to an online helper rather than browsing through text.
Growth of Smart Devices
Voice search is everywhere now that smart speakers and phones have emerged. There are even vehicles and television sets that have built-in voice assistants. Voice search is gaining traction as an activity in everyday life as these devices become ubiquitous in the home and the workplace.
Popular Among All Age Groups
Young tech-savvy children are not the only ones who can use voice search. Children can play songs or ask funny questions with it, adults can buy and get directions by it, and older people can easily use it instead of typing. This broad application causes it to proliferate through all age groups.
Building Trust in Accuracy.
Voice search used to be inaccurate. However, due to the development of AI and machine learning, the results are much more precise now. This enhanced trust is making more individuals use it on a regular basis.
Why Voice Search Matters for Brands?
| Reason | Explanation | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Greater Customer Reach | Voice assistants often give only one answer. If your brand appears, you get instant visibility and higher chances of customer conversion. | Hey Google, what’s the best shampoo for dry hair? → Assistant reads your brand’s blog answer. |
| Stronger Local Visibility | Many voice searches are location-based, ending with “near me.” This is a huge advantage for local businesses with updated listings. | Where is the nearest dental clinic open right now?→ Your clinic shows up in results. |
| Better Customer Experience | Voice search delivers quick, clear answers. Brands that provide accurate responses build customer trust and loyalty. | Order chicken biryani from XYZ restaurant. → Smooth process keeps customer coming back. |
| Competitive Advantage | Few brands are fully optimized for voice search. Early adopters stand out and win more customers before others catch up. | Two clothing brands in Lahore → Only the optimized one appears for “casual dresses near me. |
| Alignment with Customer Behavior | Voice queries are more conversational. Brands must adapt their content to match natural speech instead of short keywords. | Instead of “sports shoes Pakistan,” customers say Which brand sells affordable sports shoes in Pakistan with home delivery? |
| Building Trust & Authority | When assistants recommend your brand, customers see it as reliable and credible, giving you authority in the market. | “Alexa, what’s the best coffee for mornings?” → Alexa recommends your coffee brand. |
How Your Brand Can Get Ready for Voice Search?
Here are some practical steps your brand can take:
1- Pay attention to Conversational Keywords
2- Optimize for Local Search
3- Answer Questions Clearly
Voice assistants tend to select direct responses on the web. As a section of the website, prepare a frequently asked questions page that includes questions such as:
4- Make Structured Data (Schema Markup)
5- Write Content in a Dialogic Tone
6- Maximize Featured Snippets
Learn more about : Google Vs. AI: How can we Compare AI with Google Search
The Future of Voice Search
Final Thoughts
Voice search is changing the digital world. It’s no longer enough to only focus on text-based searches. If your brand wants to stay relevant and visible, you must adapt your content, SEO strategy, and customer experience for voice search.
The question is no longer “Is voice search important?” but rather:
“Is your brand ready for it?”
About the Author: Alishba
