Voice search

What is voice search?

Voice search is searching with your voice instead of a keyboard, for example through a voice assistant on your phone, a smart speaker or your car. Spoken queries tend to be longer and sound like an ordinary question. The assistant usually reads the answer out loud straight away.

Why is voice search important?

• Natural language: people speak differently than they type, using full sentences and questions.
• Local questions: voice is widely used on the go, for example for opening hours and directions.
• One answer: the assistant often names just one source, so a short, clear answer helps.

Examples of voice search

• “What time does the nearest pharmacy close?”
• “How much does a new boiler cost?”
• “Restaurant with a vegetarian menu near me”

How do you optimise for voice search?

Answer common questions briefly and directly in your copy, and keep your opening hours and Google Business Profile up to date (local SEO). Write the way your customers talk, not like a brochure.