Artificial intelligence (AI) plays an increasingly significant role in our daily lives, especially with search engines. New alternatives are emerging to compete with industry giants like Google. In this article, we will explore how AI is helping to improve search engine performance and who are the main innovators in this field.
How modern search engines work
In the 90’s, the first search engines like Altavista or Lycos were mainly based on keyword research. The results were ranked according to their relevance, i.e. the number of times the keyword appeared in the web page.
Today, search engines such as Google have evolved considerably. They now use complex algorithms that take many criteria into account to provide the most relevant results possible. These criteria include:
- The quality of the page content (relevance, originality, updating)
- The notoriety of the site (number of incoming links, users’ opinions)
- Technical performance of the site (loading time, mobile compatibility)
- User behavioral data (browsing history, interaction with results)
These algorithms are now enhanced by the use of artificial intelligence to improve the accuracy of results and personalize the user experience.
Artificial intelligence at the service of search engines
Improved relevance of results
AI allows search engines to analyze web pages more thoroughly through the use of Natural Language Processing (NLP). This technology involves understanding the meaning of sentences and words rather than simply counting their occurrence. This way, the proposed results are more relevant because they correspond more closely to what the user is really looking for.
Customization of results
With AI, search engines can also better understand the preferences and habits of each user. They are thus able to offer them results adapted to their interests and their browsing history. This personalization saves time and greatly improves the user experience.
Development of machine learning
One of the main strengths of AI is its ability to learn autonomously. By analyzing user behavioral data, search engines can continually improve their algorithms to deliver more relevant and personalized results. This represents a major competitive advantage for players in the sector.
Innovative alternatives to traditional search engines
Faced with the domination of giants such as Google, new search engines are emerging that rely on artificial intelligence to stand out. Here are some examples of innovative alternatives:
Komo: a search engine focused on the protection of personal data
Komo is a search engine that focuses on protecting the privacy of its users. It uses AI to deliver relevant results while ensuring that personal data is not exploited for commercial purposes. In addition, Komo donates a portion of its advertising revenue to charity, making it a responsible and ethical alternative.
Qwant: the privacy-friendly French search engine
Qwant is a French search engine that was founded in 2013. Again, privacy is at the heart of its philosophy. Qwant does not record its users’ searches or profile them for advertising purposes. In addition, it relies on artificial intelligence to refine its results and compete with the market leaders.
Ecosia: a search engine committed to the environment
Ecosia is a German search engine that stands out for its ecological commitment. Indeed, it donates 80% of its advertising revenues to reforestation projects. Like the other alternatives mentioned above, Ecosia uses AI to improve the quality of its results and provide a satisfactory user experience.
In conclusion, artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the world of search engines by making results more relevant and personalized. The new alternatives that rely on this technology therefore have an important role to play in meeting user expectations and competing with the industry giants.