TikTok is increasingly competing with Google in the search engine space, particularly among Gen Z users, according to new research from TikTok and WARC. While Millennials still prefer Google, Gen Z shows a closer usage rate between the two platforms, especially for specific categories like fashion and beauty. The rise of generative AI, such as ChatGPT, adds complexity to the search landscape, potentially leading to a fragmented market where each platform serves distinct user needs.

YouTube, founded 20 years ago by Jawed Karim, Steve Chen, and Chad Hurley, has transformed into a significant media powerhouse, potentially worth up to $550 billion. With over 20 billion videos uploaded and a growing subscription base, YouTube is projected to surpass Disney in revenue by 2025, although it faces challenges from TikTok and ongoing antitrust scrutiny towards parent company Google.