Voice search refers to queries made orally via voice assistants (Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant) or conversational AI, using natural and conversational language.
What is Voice Search?
Voice search allows users to ask questions orally to voice assistants (Google Assistant, Siri, Alexa) or conversational AI. Unlike text search ("restaurant London"), voice search uses natural, conversational language ("What's the best restaurant near me?").
Why is Voice Search important for AI visibility?
- Rapid growth: Over 50% of mobile searches are voice-based
- Single answer: Voice assistants often give only one answer, making position 1 crucial
- Link to AEO: Voice search is a major use case of Answer Engine Optimization
- Conversational intent: Voice queries reveal the user's real intention
How to optimize for Voice Search?
- FAQ format: Structure your content as natural questions/answers
- Conversational language: Use a natural tone, as if speaking
- Concise answers: Aim for 30-50 word answers for direct questions
- FAQPage schema markup: Tag your FAQ with appropriate structured data
- Local SEO: Optimize for "near me" queries
Voice Search and AI Labs Audit
AI Labs Audit includes "voice search" type prompts in its audits, simulating queries users ask aloud to AI assistants. This lets you measure your visibility on this rapidly growing channel.