Google under threat: AI gains the trust of a third of French people

AI Assistants Gain the Trust of the French

Artificial intelligence assistants and traditional search engines are engaged in a fierce battle to capture user attention, particularly among young adults. According to a study conducted by Havas Market, one-third of the French now consider AI assistants to be more reliable than conventional search engines.

The use of AI is no longer just a pastime or a technological curiosity. The French are using it to seek advice, compare products, and even make purchases. The second edition of the Havas Market study reveals that 66% of the French use generative AI tools, an increase from the 59% recorded in 2025. This phenomenon is not limited to younger generations, as even individuals aged 55 and older have seen their personal usage increase by 9 points. Conversational assistants are thus gaining ground among those aged 18-34, surpassing traditional search engines.

ChatGPT and the Diversification of AI Tools

ChatGPT remains the undisputed leader among personal AI tools, being used by 81% of AI users. This figure rises to 91% among the younger demographic. However, the AI market is rapidly diversifying with the emergence of other tools like Gemini, which has reached 48% usage, marking a 15-point increase, and Claude, which has recorded an 11-point rise. On average, the French now use two AI tools, indicating a trend towards testing and comparing different options.

For one-third of the French, AI is perceived as more reliable than search engines. The Havas Market study indicates that 66% of adults surveyed used generative artificial intelligence in May 2026, compared to 59% the previous year.

Free Versions Remain Dominant

The majority of ChatGPT users, 86%, opt for the free version, as do 88% of Gemini users. However, young adults aged 18 to 34 show a greater willingness to pay for premium services, with 19% of them using paid versions, compared to 12% among those aged 35-54.

The Impact on Information Search

Although 53% of AI users still start with a search engine, the trend is reversing among those aged 18-34. In this age group, 52.5% prefer to use a conversational AI first, compared to 39.9% who turn to a traditional search engine. AI is no longer just complementing Google; it is becoming a genuine gateway for information search.

A New Commercial Filter for Brands

AI, although often relying on content already available online, is deemed more reliable by 34% of users compared to search engines and traditional media. Additionally, 43% of users consider them equally reliable. Only 22% find them less credible. The ability of AI to provide short, personalized, and confident responses seems to reassure users.

The uses of AI are also becoming very personal. Health is the most consulted area, with 49% of users having queried an AI on this topic. Tourism, travel, and mobility follow at 38%, while leisure and culture reach 37%. AI is thus positioning itself as a modern alternative to online forums like Doctissimo, but with a more polished and personalized approach.

A Tangible Commercial Impact

The impact of AI on commerce is becoming increasingly concrete. According to the study, 55% of AI users report having made a purchase after using AI to gather information. Among them, 34% went to a store, 33% purchased the recommended product online, and nearly 10% bought directly via AI when that option was available.

However, the French wish to maintain control. 65% would accept that an AI compares and purchases the cheapest product for a pre-selected reference, but they are less inclined to entrust it with a completely autonomous choice. Advertising remains a sensitive topic, with only 24% of users willing to accept relevant sponsored content. For Pauline Dauvel, CEO of Havas Market, AI is becoming "a companion for research, comparison, and sometimes decision-making," highlighting the urgency for brands to position themselves within these new consumption dynamics.