Voice search is experiencing a decline in popularity as a method for searching information. A recent study by Stone Temple shows that, among over 1,000 respondents, voice search ranked fourth in usage when asked how they typically find information on their phones. Respondents were asked to rank their top three methods of searching for information, and the options were:
1. Use voice search
2. Type the question into the search window of the phone
3. Type the question into search engine apps
4. Open a mobile browser like Safari or Google Chrome, and type the question
5. Ask a friend via text or messaging app
The results revealed mobile browsers as the most popular choice, followed by search engine apps and then the phone’s built-in search window. Voice search, which was the third most popular choice in 2018, has now slipped to fourth place. However, the study noted an increase in the number of people who selected voice search as their first choice.
In 2019, about 25% of participants listed voice search as their top choice, compared to around 15% in 2018. Despite this, voice search still ranks fourth overall when all choices are considered. This suggests that those who do use voice search tend to favor it highly. Nonetheless, many people have yet to fully engage with voice search.
The study also explored the use of voice commands, with only 20% of respondents using them for online searches. Participants were asked which applications they have controlled with voice commands, and online search ranked sixth out of 11 choices. Most people use voice commands to make calls, text, get directions, play music, or set reminders.
The study also found that women are more likely than men to use voice search for online inquiries. Interestingly, men generally use voice commands more than women, except in the cases of texting and voice search. These findings are part of the 31 data points in Stone Temple’s study on voice usage trends for 2019.
