The most popular searches of 2024 according to Google

As it does every December, the search engine gives us a glimpse of the pulse of global culture through its Year in Search.

In 2024, topics such as artificial intelligence, sustainability and social movements dominated searches, reflecting not only the boom in generative AI such as ChatGPT, but also a growing awareness of the technology’s environmental impact. As AI becomes integrated into our routine, searches for ‘how to use AI in my work’ and ‘how to protect my privacy online’ soared, indicating a combination of fascination and caution with technological advancement.

What is also notable is the rise of social movements and political issues. Terms such as ‘climate change’, ‘gender equality’ and ‘racial justice’ marked a stark contrast to the entertainment-related searches and viral fads of other years. This indicates that, while people are still hooked on platforms such as TikTok or the latest fashion releases, there is a shift towards a deeper focus on issues of global impact.

Google is not just a search machine, it is a mirror that reflects our priorities and anxieties. If Year in Search 2024 tells us anything, it is that humanity is in a moment of digital introspection, where what we seek most is not just entertainment, but solutions to global challenges.

Year in Search 2024 – Global