Google UK Search Trends reveal that Brits are keen to make AI work for them

The UK’s latest Google Trends for January to July 2024 reveal the country’s growing appetite to learn more about AI. We’ve seen a 50% increase in ‘AI’ searches, 200% growth in searches on ‘generative AI’ specifically, and a 70% uplift in queries for tips on ‘how to use AI’, as more people are keen to harness the power of this transformative technology.

AI is powering British creativity

It's exciting to see Brits using AI to take their creativity to new heights. People are on the lookout for AI-powered tools to help them to make their presentations, speeches, and marketing campaigns more engaging.

Here are some of the UK’s top trending AI searches. These were breakout searches, meaning that they’ve all seen a remarkable 5,000% surge since last year!?

AI is transforming the business world

AI has the potential to transform businesses, boost productivity, and accelerate economic growth and the trends we’re seeing reflect the nation’s interest in unlocking these benefits. Searches for “AI and business” are up by 80%, as more people in business are keen to experiment with these technologies and unlock efficiencies. The startup ecosystem is bursting with opportunity, and searches for ‘AI and startups’ have jumped by 60%, as people search for inspiration, employment and investment opportunities from new disruptors eager to scale AI-powered solutions that could change the world as we know it.

AI in Healthcare: unlocking potential for longer, healthier lives

AI’s potential impact on science and healthcare is a source of hope, with people keen to learn more about how AI might help them to lead longer and healthier lives. Searches for AI and healthcare (+60%), doctors (+50%) and medicine (+40%) have all increased over the past year. This increased interest coincides with the publication of research into how AI can support doctors with diagnoses, the technology’s ability to pass medical exams, and the scientific discoveries being made as a result of advances in AI.

Brits want to learn about AI and use the tech to pick up practical skills?

We’re seeing more queries than ever on AI-related learning resources. Searches for ‘AI courses’ have doubled in the past year, up 100%, and queries on ‘AI jobs’ have jumped by 70%. These stats suggest that people across the country are both keen to learn more about how AI can help them in daily life, and find out more about the new roles and industries that this technology is set to create.

How Google is helping Brits to make AI work for them

Our Economic Impact Report highlights how AI-powered innovation could create over ￡400 billion in economic value for the UK by 2030. Our search trends indicate that Brits are very excited about unlocking this opportunity, and eager to have the chance to turn these figures into something tangible. It’s fascinating to see both the surge in searches on AI, and to uncover the various ways that people want to use this technology to enhance their lives. We’re passionate about connecting people with authoritative sources of information on AI and offering upskilling resources - such as our AI-focused New Fundamentals free training series and our AI Essentials Career Certificate - to help people and businesses learn the practical skills needed to capture the benefits of this technology.

This summer, we announced the launch of ‘AI Works’, a series of cutting-edge pilots to uncover the most effective ways to rapidly and radically accelerate uptake of AI skills, boost productivity, and help everyone across the UK benefit from the opportunities of AI.

Google is partnering with @Community Union, @Enterprise Nation and their network of small businesses including @Grind Coffee, as well as multi-academy trusts, @Lift Schools and @Leo Academy Trust, to uncover the most effective ways to supercharge AI upskilling and adoption. Supported by researchers from Public First, we will unearth insights with the potential to transform different sectors and share scalable learnings to help business leaders and policymakers to tap into this technology's potential.

So if you’re looking for artistic inspiration, a productivity boost for your business, or even keen to find out how to live a healthier life. AI can help, and we’re excited to learn more about innovative ways to equip people with the skills they need to make AI work for them!