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arXiv · 2512.08946

Large Language Models as Search Engines: Societal Challenges

Zacchary Sadeddine·Winston Maxwell·Gaël Varoquaux·Fabian M. Suchanek
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Abstract

Large Language Models (LLMs) may one day replace search engines as the primary portal to information on the Web. In this article, we investigate the societal challenges that such a change could bring. We focus on the roles of LLM Providers, Content Creators, and End Users, and identify 15 types of challenges. With each, we show current mitigation strategies -- both from the technical perspective and the legal perspective. We also discuss the impact of each challenge and point out future research opportunities.

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Zacchary Sadeddine, Winston Maxwell, Gaël Varoquaux, Fabian M. Suchanek. 2025-11-24. Large Language Models as Search Engines: Societal Challenges. https://arxiv.org/abs/2512.08946

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