LinkedIn is taking another major step in its artificial intelligence journey by introducing AI-powered search — a feature designed to help users find people more intuitively. This latest update marks the platform’s most significant AI integration yet, enhancing one of its core functions: connecting professionals.
For the past two years, LinkedIn has steadily infused AI across multiple aspects of its platform — from ad copy generation and personalized content recommendations to learning suggestions and job-hunting tools. Now, the company is extending its AI reach to the people search experience, a key move that could redefine professional networking.
Smarter, Natural Language Search
Earlier this year, LinkedIn launched an AI job search tool in the U.S., allowing users to search for roles using natural language. The new rollout applies the same concept to people search. Instead of relying on rigid keywords and filters, users can now type queries such as:
- “Find me investors in the healthcare sector with FDA experience.”
- “Show me people who co-founded a productivity startup in New York City.”
- “Who in my network can help me understand wireless networks?”
This conversational approach eliminates the need to guess job titles or filter combinations — the AI handles the complexity.
“With lexical search, you had to know the exact title or fiddle with filters to find the right person. If you didn’t, the right connection often went undiscovered,” said Rohan Rajiv, Senior Director of Product Management at LinkedIn, in an interview with TechCrunch. “The new AI-powered search is designed to be the fastest path to the person who can help you the most.”
Transforming Professional Discovery
According to LinkedIn, early tests show users leveraging the feature to identify collaborators, potential employers, or business leads more effectively. It’s a significant shift in how professionals discover opportunities and connections.
The move also underscores a growing trend among digital platforms — embedding AI directly into search. From Google and Bing to Reddit and DuckDuckGo, platforms are increasingly using AI to deliver context-aware results and conversational discovery. LinkedIn’s integration builds on this momentum but tailors it specifically to professional networking.
Balancing AI Access and Data Privacy
Interestingly, while LinkedIn is widely used by AI agents and browsers for demos, the Microsoft-owned platform has not yet restricted data access for AI training. Rajiv noted that policies around AI agents and browser integrations are still evolving, hinting at potential adjustments in the future.
“We’re still early in understanding how browsers will work on behalf of people,” Rajiv said. “Over time, we’ll develop a more sturdy policy.”
Availability
LinkedIn’s AI-powered people search is currently rolling out to premium users in the United States, with plans to expand to other regions soon. Eligible users will notice a small but significant change — their search bar will now read “I’m looking for…” instead of “Search.”
As AI continues to redefine the professional landscape, LinkedIn’s latest update positions it as a frontrunner in the race to make networking smarter, faster, and more personal.
