Understanding the Latest Search Trends and Keywords to Watch in 2025

Analyzing the Latest Search Trends for 2025

In the rapidly evolving domain of SEO and digital marketing, keeping abreast of current trends and upcoming keywords is vital for success. LiKG, a company based in Shibuya, Tokyo, led by president Mitsuo Kondo, recently conducted a comprehensive analysis based on data from Google Ads Keyword Planner. Their research specifically focuses on significant keywords related to SEO and digital marketing trends projected from January to June 2025.

Key Findings of the Survey

The analysis revealed that the keyword GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) exhibited an overwhelming search volume. However, much of this interest seems to stem from brand searches related to the game retail and reuse shop Geo. On the other hand, LLMO (Large Language Model Optimization), a new and emerging term, has seen a dramatic rise in search interest, soaring from just 10 queries in January to a striking 18,100 by June. This indicates a robust and rapid growth in relevance and applicability within the market.

While AIO (Artificial Intelligence Optimization) grew approximately 1.8 times, signaling an increased focus on AI-driven strategies, phrases like AI SEO and EEAT (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) also showed a steady upward trend. Surprisingly, AEO (Answer Engine Optimization) remained flat over the same period.

Even though search volumes were modest for content-related keywords, specific terms related to SEO, such as AI SEO and EEAT, surfaced with around 3,600 searches. These terms suggest a growing interest in optimizing search experiences utilizing generative AI and reflect a conscious approach to meet Google’s stringent search quality evaluation standards. With increasing significance in content strategy and SEO practices, their prominence is expected to escalate.

Understanding the Surge of LLMO

A Commentary by Mitsuo Kondo, President of LiKG

Kondo articulated that the remarkable rise in LLMO is attributed to shifts in search environments. Traditionally, SEO centered around optimizing for search engine results. However, with the introduction of AI Overviews in Google search slated for 2024, user interactions and information accessibility are undergoing a transformation. Companies, media outlets, and advertisers must not only aim to appear in search results but also adapt to be included in AI-generated responses, solidifying LLMO as a timely priority.

Additionally, the upcoming launch in September 2025 of an AI mode—which fuses AI chat and search capabilities in the Japanese version of Google—adds another layer of importance, prompting businesses to rethink marketing strategies alongside traditional SEO.

Keywords to Watch for the Future

This survey not only highlighted the prominence of AI SEO and EEAT but also unveiled other keywords to monitor for future trends:
1. Search Intent: This concept illustrates what users are looking to discover. As generative AI shapes responses based on user intent, its importance over keyword optimization is set to elevate further.
2. Zero-Click Search: This type of search presents complete answers within Google’s search results page, and the rise of LLMO and AI SEO directly relates to this trend’s acceleration.
3. Trust & Credibility: With the prevalence of AI-generated content, the risk of misinformation is increasing. The growth of EEAT reflects a growing awareness of the necessity for verified and credible content.
4. Local SEO: Although local search may have a limited search volume, it remains a significant factor in establishing competitive advantages for small businesses within emerging AI-driven search contexts.
5. AI Overviews: As Google initiates this direct response feature, users experience a shift away from dependency on click-based search results, posing substantial implications for SEO strategies.
6. Query Fan-Out: In this structure, users’ queries may lead to multiple similar searches via AI, which determines the range of information referenced in AI-generated replies—emphasizing the importance of LLMO.

Our Commitment to Adapting to Search Trends

LiKG, dedicated to addressing the latest search trends, will provide solutions that encapsulate the rapid changes in the digital marketing landscape. With the emergence of LLMO and the urgent need for businesses to adapt to AI-driven environments, effective integration into marketing strategies is becoming increasingly critical. LiKG offers tailored services such as SEO consulting, content marketing support, and owned media development for businesses navigating these challenges. By assimilating insights from current research, we aim to enhance corporate growth and brand value while addressing evolving SEO dynamics.

About Mitsuo Kondo, President of LiKG

Mitsuo Kondo founded LiKG in 2023 after gaining experience in media alliances and SEO at an IT venture in Tokyo. Since then, he has developed a robust network of over 2,000 freelancers, creating optimized teams to effectively address client challenges, yielding high-quality web marketing solutions at competitive prices. The company achieved an impressive 300% growth in its second year and continues to expand.