AI recommendations are changing how consumers judge local business ratings
BrightLocal's 2026 survey found that 45% of Americans now use AI assistants to get local business recommendations, up from 6% a year earlier. This rapid shift is changing how consumers rely on star ratings when choosing service providers.
A 2026 BrightLocal survey indicates that 45% of Americans now turn to AI assistants for recommendations about local businesses. That figure stood at 6% just one year earlier, marking a sharp increase in a short period.
As this behavior spreads, the way people weigh star ratings when selecting service providers appears to be shifting. The survey points to a changing role for traditional rating signals in local consumer decisions.
This shift could affect local service providers, especially smaller businesses that depend on visible star ratings to attract customers. If AI assistants summarize or prioritize recommendations differently, consumers may rely less on conventional review scores, potentially changing how businesses manage reputation. Consumers may gain convenience but could also face less transparent criteria. Platforms and review sites may need to adapt.