In 2025, how people search online has drastically evolved. Instead of typing short keywords, users are now speaking full questions or uploading images to find what they need. This shift has made voice and visual search essential for any business that wants to stay competitive in digital marketing.

In this blog, we’ll explain what voice and visual search are, why they matter in 2025, and how you can optimize your website to rank better for both.

What is Voice Search?

Voice search is when users speak their search queries instead of typing them. Devices like smartphones, smart speakers (like Alexa or Google Home), and even cars support voice commands.

Example:
Instead of typing “best marketing agency LA,” a user might say:
“Hey Google, what’s the best digital marketing agency in Los Angeles?”

What is Visual Search?

Visual search allows users to search using images instead of words. Tools like Google Lens, Pinterest Lens, and Snapchat Scan let people snap a photo or upload an image to find similar products or information.

Example:
A user uploads a picture of a website layout and searches:
“Find digital agencies that design websites like this.”

Why Voice & Visual Search Matter in 2025

• Over 50% of searches are now voice-based.

• More users prefer searching with images on mobile.

• Google Lens is used over 10 billion times a month.

• Shoppers are 2x more likely to buy using visual search.

If your business isn’t optimized for these new search methods, you could be missing out on potential traffic and leads.

How to Optimize for Voice Search

1. Use Conversational Keywords

Voice searches sound more like natural speech. Focus on long-tail keywords and questions people ask.

Examples:

• “How to improve SEO for a local business?”

• “What is the best marketing strategy in 2025?”

2. Target Featured Snippets

Google often pulls voice search answers from featured snippets (position zero). To get featured:

• Answer common questions directly.

• Use bullet points or numbered lists.

• Keep answers short (40-60 words).

3. Optimize for Local Voice Search

Voice queries often include phrases like “near me” or “open now.”

• Add local keywords (city, neighborhood).

• Keep your Google Business Profile updated.

• Use schema markup for local businesses.

4. Improve Site Speed and Mobile Friendliness

Voice search mostly happens on mobile. Your site should:

• Load in under 3 seconds.

• Be mobile responsive.

• Use HTTPS for security.

How to Optimize for Visual Search

1. Use High-Quality Images

Use clear, original images for your products or services. Avoid generic stock photos.

Tips:

• Use proper lighting and background.

• Show multiple angles (if products).

• Add branding where relevant.

2. Add Descriptive File Names and Alt Text

Rename your image files with relevant keywords.

Example:
✅ los-angeles-digital-marketing.jpg
❌ IMG_20250729.jpg

Use alt text like:
alt="Digital marketing team working in Los Angeles office"

3. Add Image Schema Markup

Use structured data (imageObject schema) so search engines understand your images better. This helps your visuals appear in Google Images or Lens results.

4. Optimize for Pinterest and Google Lens

Visual platforms love vertical, mobile-friendly images. Use:

• Text overlays.

• Descriptive pin captions.

• Hashtags for image discovery.

Bonus: Combine Voice and Visual Search

Voice and visual often work together. A user might take a picture of a product and say:
“Find this service provider near me.”

Tips to prepare:

• Use clear image descriptions.

• Add FAQs to product/service pages.

• Keep consistent branding in both voice and image results.

Final Checklist for 2025

• Use natural, question-based keywords
• Add FAQs to important landing pages
• Include schema markup for voice & visual SEO
• Optimize images with proper alt text and file names
• Improve page speed and mobile usability
• Keep your Google Business Profile updated
• Create content that answers voice queries and shows visual intent

Conclusion

Voice and visual search aren’t just trends—they’re the new way people interact with online content. If your business is not adapting, you risk falling behind.

At a digital marketing agency, we help businesses like yours get discovered in every way people search—whether they type, speak, or snap a photo.