AI, Strong-Arm Tactics & a Shifting Review Landscape Are Reshaping Local Search

The Near Memo · Feb 25, 2026 · 36m

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Google AI & Click Economics

Google is replacing structured GBP data with AI-generated summaries, nudging users into AI Mode, and expanding monetization pathways. Aleyda Solis’ study and Near Media research show ads — especially LSAs — are siphoning clicks.

Data Moats & Scraping Crackdowns

Google restricts scraping, disrupting SerpAPI. The move reinforces Google’s data advantage against ChatGPT and Perplexity while signaling an increasingly closed ecosystem.

Reviews, Inflation & Consumer Backlash (22:00–36:00)

Yelp’s Trust Report and BrightLocal’s 2026 study show persistent…