How India Uses AI
Consumer Usage & Preferences Report, April 2026
Which platforms are winning? How are consumers actually interacting with AI? And is AI already reshaping brand discovery? This study dives deep into platform preferences, interaction modes, citation trust and AI’s impact on traditional digital channels
of primary AI usage is split between ChatGPT (46.4%) and Google Gemini (35.6%) — a two-horse race.
of consumers are open to exploring brands recommended by AI — a new discovery engine is born
access AI primarily via smartphones. Mobile-first is the default mode for India’s AI consumers.
trust AI answers more when well-known sources are cited. Source credibility is a force multiplier
- 01Platform landscape: Which AI tools India uses most, the ChatGPT vs. Gemini battle, and the rise of specialised AI tools for images, writing and coding.
- 02Interaction modes: Devices, voice usage, language preferences and the Hinglish factor shaping AI experiences.
- 03Citations & source trust: How much Indians trust AI answers, whether they click source links, and the power of brand citations.
- 04Impact on traditional platforms: How AI is cannibalising Google Search, Wikipedia, e-commerce and review sites — and the new brand discovery dynamic.
- 05Outlook & implications: Strategic takeaways for brands — from AI visibility audits to structured content strategies.
- CMOs and brand strategists rethinking discovery and visibility in the age of AI.
- Content and SEO teams adapting strategy for AI citations and multi-platform visibility.
- Product teams building for a mobile-first, voice-forward, multilingual AI audience.
- Agency and consulting professionals advising on AI-driven transformation.
Online consumer survey of 1,000+ respondents conducted in Q1 2026. The study covers 5 sections with 15+ questions, targeting urban, tech-savvy Indian consumers aged 18–44 across Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai and other metros. 91.6% of respondents were under 35.